Regional variation in orthopedic surgery in Switzerland
Publisher DOI
PubMed ID
19217818
Abstract
The study systematically describes the frequency and geographic variability of major surgical interventions for musculoskeletal disorders in Switzerland. Age- and sex-standardized rates for joint replacements, arthroscopies, spine surgery and hip fracture repair were calculated for hospital service regions. Various statistical analyses were used to measure the extent of variation. The authors argue that the surgery of hip fractures can be used as index surgery in the context of analyzing variations in orthopedic surgery. Temporal trends imply that patient demand and supply factors related to clinical ambiguity and non-medical incentives of providers are far more important components leading to increased use than the sole effect of an aging population.
Date Issued
2009
Publication Type
Article
Language(s)
en
Author(s)
Additional Credits
Journal
Health & place
Publisher
Elsevier
ISSN
1353-8292
Access(Rights)
metadata.only