The hidden cost of deep neck space infections
- 1 February 2018
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Royal College of Surgeons of England in The Annals of The Royal College of Surgeons of England
- Vol. 100 (2), 129-134
- https://doi.org/10.1308/rcsann.2017.0193
Abstract
The incidence of deep neck space infection (DNSI) is rising and appears to be related to falling rates of tonsillectomy. The purpose of this study was to assess demographics of patients presenting with DNSI and the financial burden to the National Health Service (NHS). Data were collected retrospectively on patients aged over 16 years admitted to NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde with DNSI between 2012 and 2016. Demographics, aetiology and use of hospital resources were reviewed. The cost of hospital admissions was calculated using data from NHS Scotland’s Information Services Division, the local diagnostics division and the British National Formulary. Seventy-four patients were admitted with DNSI during the study period. Forty (54%) were male. The mean age was 44.0 years (range: 16–86 years). The most frequent source of infection was the tonsil (n=30, 40.5%). The most common infective organism was Streptococcus constellatus (n=9, 12.2%). The mean length of stay was 11 days. Fifty-five patients (74.3%) required operative intervention. The mean cost of admission per patient was £5,700 (range: £332–£46,700). This study highlights the high cost burden of DNSI to the NHS. The incidence of DNSI in Glasgow has risen over the study period; contributing factors may include the reduced tonsillectomy rate and a reduction in antibiotic prescribing. As the incidence of DNSI continues to rise, there will be an increase in cost to the NHS, which must be planned for.This publication has 11 references indexed in Scilit:
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