A cost analysis of surgical site infection for hip fracture patients using national clinical audit data

Abstract

Aim
To estimate the direct economic burden of surgical site infections (SSIs) following hip fracture surgery within the Irish healthcare system.

Methods
A micro-costing analysis using clinical audit data was undertaken to estimate the direct in patient costs of treating SSIs after hip fracture surgery. Costs were calculated for the acute episode of care and stratified by demographic and clinical characteristics, allowing for a more detailed assessment of potential disparities in healthcare outcomes and associated expenditure across different patient groups.

Results
Over 12 months, 16 (0.4%) hip fracture patients developed an SSI. The total cost was €712,898, with a mean of €44,556 per patient. Differences by subgroup were noted: males €35,418, females €50,039, aged ≥80 €49,712 and <80 years €33,213.

Discussion
These findings indicate that disease-specific surveillance programmes can generate valuable health economic and epidemiological evidence. As the older population continues to grow, the incidence of SSIs and their associated costs are likely to rise. Ongoing analysis and systematic monitoring through clinical audit are crucial for refining cost estimates, informing evidence-based policies, and optimising resource allocation to enhance the quality of care in the acute hospital setting.