Functional dependence predicts adverse outcomes among geriatric otolaryngology patients better than more complex risk scales: a multivariate analysis of hospitalization risks on elderly group

As the population of patients aged 80 and above continues to grows, otorhinolaryngology departments face increasing demands to manage complex and vulnerable older adults. In this multicenter retrospective study, we analyzed data from 426 hospitalized patients across eight university hospitals to identify predictors of prolonged hospitalization, 30-days serious complications, and 90-days functional decline. We found that physical inactivity ( p < 0.001; p = 0.011; p = 0.004, respectively), dependence in daily functioning ( p = 0.008; p < 0.001; p < 0.001), and impaired food intake ( p < 0.001; p < 0.001; p = 0.002) were the most consistent and significant predictors of all three adverse outcomes. Traditional risk assessment tools, including the ASA and Caprini scores, showed limited predictive utility, with only the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) offering meaningful additional value. Our findings underscore the importance of integrating functional status measures-such as mobility and food intake- into routine risk stratification to better identify high-risk geriatric inpatients and guide more personalized clinical management strategies.