Predictors of reoperation and noninfectious complications following craniotomy for cerebral abscess

Abstract

Objectives: There is a paucity of literature that examines predictors of reoperation and noninfectious complications following treatment of cerebral abscess with craniotomy. The goal of the present study is to identify predictors for each of these outcomes.

Patients and methods: The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database 2012-2016 file was the data source. Patients were identified using a combination of CPT and ICD-9/10 codes. Exclusions included missing age/gender, secondary surgery, and absent length of stay information. Univariate followed by multivariable analysis using logistic regression was used to identify significant predictors of reoperation and noninfectious postoperative complications (p < 0.05).

Results: 166 patients met the above criteria. Median age was 56 (IQR 44-65) and 68.1% of patients were men. The 30-day reoperation rate was 18.1% and increasing white blood cell count (WBC) was identified as a significant risk factor for reoperation (odds ratio [OR] 1.10, 95% CI 1.02-1.19, p = 0.013). Noninfectious complications occurred at a rate of 20.5% at 30 days. Significant predictors were ASA classification ≥4 (OR 4.13, 95% CI 1.74-9.81, p = 0.001), smoking (OR 3.04, 95% CI 1.18-7.78, p = 0.020), and increasing WBC count (OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.03-1.20, p = 0.007). Emergency case status, abscess location (supratentorial versus infratentorial), nor chronic steroid use demonstrated a significant relationship with the studied outcomes.

Conclusion: Increasing preoperative WBC count predicts both reoperation and noninfectious complications following craniotomy for cerebral abscess. Less modifiable predictors for noninfectious complications which may help anticipate operative risk are smoking and high ASA classification.

Keywords: Brain abscess; Cerebral abscess; Complications; Craniotomy; Reoperation; Surgery.