Morbidity and mortality among patients with head and neck cancer in the emergency department: A national perspective.

BACKGROUND

Emergency departments are playing an increasing role in cancer management. Emergency department utilization by patients with head and neck cancer, however, is unknown.

METHODS

The 2009-2011 Nationwide Emergency Department Sample was queried for patients with a principle diagnosis of head and neck cancer. Descriptive analysis was performed to characterize patient and hospital characteristics, outcomes, and charges. Logistic regression identified predictors of admission and mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 31 390 patients were seen in the emergency department with head and neck cancer: 72.8% were admitted, 0.5% died in the emergency department, and 5.0% died during admission. Patients with cancer of unknown primary site had the greatest odds of admission (odds ration [OR]: 2.83; P < 0.0001). Privately insured patients (OR: 1.78; P = 0.001), those from higher income zip codes (OR: 1.56; P = 0.008), and those with oropharyngeal cancer (OR: 2.02; P = 0.0003) had the greatest odds of death.

CONCLUSION

These findings have direct implications for preventing unnecessary and costly emergency department visits, improving hospital and physician preparedness, and improving patient outcomes.