Implementation of the “No ICU – Unless” approach in postoperative neurosurgical management in times of COVID-19

• DOI: 10.1007/s10143-022-01851-y
• Publication Date: 2022-09-08T03:12:14Z
• Authors: Lina-Elisabeth Qasem; Ali Al-Hilou; Kai Zacharowski; Moritz Funke; Ulrich Strouhal; Sarah C. Reitz; Daniel Jussen; Marie Thérèse For...; Juergen Konczalla; Vincent Matthias ...; Kristin Lucia; Marcus Czabanka
• Keywords: Medical record

Abstract Following elective craniotomy, patients routinely receive 24-h monitoring in an intensive care unit (ICU). However, the benefit of and treatment these is discussed controversially. This study aimed to evaluate complication profile a “No ICU – Unless” strategy compare this with standardized management post-craniotomy ICU. Two postoperative strategies were compared matched-pair analysis: The first cohort included who managed normal ward postoperatively (“No group). second contained admitted (control Outcome parameters detailed profile, length hospital stay, duration mobilization, number unplanned imaging before scheduled imaging, type interventions, as well pre- modified Rankin scale (mRS). Patient characteristics clinical course analyzed using electronic medical records. No Unless (NIU) group consisted 96 patients, control 75 patients. Complication rates comparable both cohorts (16% NIU vs. 17% group; p = 0.123). Groups did not differ significantly any outcome examined. stay was shorter but reach statistical significance (average 5.8 6.8 days; 0.481). There no significant change distribution preoperative ( 0.960) 0.425) mRS scores groups. Routine does reduce complications affect surgical after craniotomies. Most are detected observation period. approach may represent potential prevent overutilization capacities while maintaining sufficient for neurosurgical