Research published in the Journal of Arthroplasty examined how race can affect outcomes and complications following total joint arthroplasty.
The researchers analyzed 7,208 consecutive primary total joint arthroplasty procedures performed between July 2013 and June 2017. They used chi-squared and t-tests to quantify differences between white and African-American patients. Researchers used multiple logistic regression to identify race as an independent risk factor. Out of the patients studied, 6,182 were white, and 1,026 were African-American.
Here are the key details to know:
1. African-American patients had a longer length of stay and were more likely to have septic complications and manipulation under anesthesia.
2. African-American patients were also less likely to be discharged home.
3. Researchers concluded, "African-American patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty were younger with longer length of stay and a higher rate of non-home discharge; African-American race was an identified as an independent risk factor. Further study is required to understand the differences identified in this study. Targeted interventions should be developed to attempt to eliminate the disparity."