Quality/Patient Safety Goal:
Reduction in Post-operative Length of Stay for Patients Undergoing Posterior Spinal Fusion
Goal & Summary
One of the key metrics of efficiency in the care of posterior spinal fusion surgery is the hospital length of stay, or number of days a patient is hospitalized. We are committed to efficient care at Akron Children’s while providing a patient- and family-centered approach.
Why is this important?
Scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine that is greater than 10%. This occurs in 0.3% of the population. Patients who require surgical correction of their scoliosis have been proven to have a reduced post-operative length-of-stay with a standardized and evidence-based approach to care that includes pain management, physical therapy and readiness for discharge protocols.
What are we doing to improve?
A spinal fusion surgery improvement team was assembled to comprehensively review and update evidence-based practices to ensure both optimal care and shortened post-operative length-of-stay. The interventions resulted in a real value for our patients by improving their quality of care and shortening their length-of-stay without increasing complications.
What progress have we made?
Who are we partnering with to share best practices?
The improvement leaders presented portions of their improvement work at numerous clinical and IT venues, including at a Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society, Inc. conference.
