Journal of the American College of Surgeons
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Multicenter Study Clinical Trial
Effect of Patient Age on Outcomes in Breast Reconstruction: Results from a Multicenter Prospective Study.
Although >40% of new breast cancer diagnoses in the US are in older women, few studies have assessed the outcomes of post-mastectomy reconstruction in this population. Our objective was to evaluate age effects on postoperative complications and patient-reported outcomes in women undergoing breast reconstruction, and to investigate whether age effects differ between reconstructive procedure types. ⋯ Age did not significantly affect complication rates. Older women demonstrated higher sexual well-being for both procedures, and better satisfaction and physical and psychosocial well-being than younger women with autologous procedures. Post-mastectomy reconstruction is a viable option for older patients, with risks and benefits comparable with those in younger women.
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Comparative Study
Acute Rehabilitation after Trauma: Does it Really Matter?
The impact of post-discharge rehabilitation care for the trauma patient remains poorly investigated. Here we describe the functional outcomes of trauma patients discharged to an inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF), and compare the likelihood of discharge home, 1-year rehospitalization, and 1-year mortality between patients discharged to an IRF and a propensity score-matched cohort of patients not discharged to an IRF. ⋯ Acute trauma patients should be recognized as an underserved population that would benefit considerably from inpatient rehabilitation services after discharge from the hospital.