{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Barriers to elective cholecystectomy following emergency department discharge for symptomatic cholelithiasis.
{Author}: Gazzetta J;Orjionwe R;Fesmire A;Craft S;Esry L;Gazzetta E;Benedict LA;Nix S;
{Journal}: Am J Surg
{Volume}: 238
{Issue}: 0
{Year}: 2024 Jul 9
{Factor}: 3.125
{DOI}: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2024.115837
{Abstract}: <B>BACKGROUND: </B>Patients with symptomatic cholelithiasis are often discharged from the Emergency Department (ED) and asked to follow-up for elective cholecystectomy. We aimed to identify the social determinants of health (SDOH) that serve as barriers to elective cholecystectomy and to assess the associated impact on patient outcomes.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>We conducted a multi-institutional, retrospective cohort study of patients discharged from the ED with symptomatic cholelithiasis. Univariable logistic regression was used to assess for variables associated with re-presenting to the ED rather than for elective cholecystectomy. P values ​< ​0.05 identified significance.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>Univariate analysis identified lack of a primary care physician, Black race, self-pay, language other than English as the primary language, and unemployed status to be independently associated with re-presentation to the ED for biliary disease.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>Socially disadvantaged populations would benefit from surgery at the time of presentation to the ED versus being sent home for elective follow-up.