The impact of undergoing elective pediatric lung resection during respiratory syncytial virus peak season on patient outcomes: A nationwide retrospective analysis

Abstract Objectives Observational data to support delaying elective pediatric thoracic surgery during peak respiratory viral illness season is lacking. This study evaluated whether lung surgery during peak viral season is associated with differences in postoperative outcomes and resource utilization. Methods A retrospective observational cohort study was performed using the Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS). Patients with a congenital lung malformation (CLM) who underwent elective lung resection between 1 January 2016 and 29 February 2020 were included. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) incidence was used as a proxy for respiratory viral illness circulation. Monthly hospital‐specific RSV incidence was calculated from PHIS data, and peak RSV season was defined by Centers for Disease Control data. Multivariable regression models were built to identify predictors of postoperative mechanical ventilation, which was the main outcome measure, as well as secondary outcomes including 30‐day readmission after lung resection, postoperative length of stay (LOS) and hospital billing charges. Results Of 1542 CLM patients identified, 344 (22.3%) underwent lung resection during peak RSV season. 38% fewer operations were performed per month during peak RSV season than during off‐peak months ( p < .001). Children who underwent surgery during peak RSV season did not differ from the off‐peak group in terms of age at operation, race, or comorbid conditions (i.e., congenital heart disease, newborn respiratory distress, and preoperative pneumonia). There was no association between hospital‐specific RSV incidence at the time of surgery and postoperative mechanical ventilation, postoperative LOS, 30‐day readmission rate or hospital billing charges. Discussion Performing elective lung surgery in children with CLMs during peak viral season is not associated with adverse surgical outcomes or increased utilization of healthcare resources.