Which is the association between patient-related variables and type of hospital discharge in geriatric surgical patients? Findings from a retrospective study

Geriatric surgical patients often have clinical and social factors influencing their discharge destination. This retrospective study examines patient-related variables associated with home discharge in individuals aged ≥65 years who underwent general, orthopedic, otolaryngologic, urologic, or vascular surgery in three northern Italian hospitals (January–December 2024). Functional status was assessed using the Barthel Index, along with sociodemographic and clinical data. Among 2015 patients, 77% were discharged home. Positive predictors of home discharge included older age (OR=1.040, p < 0.001), higher Barthel Index at discharge (OR=1.028, p < 0.001), and higher hemoglobin levels (OR=1.023, p < 0.001). Negative predictors included male sex (OR=0.496, p < 0.001), higher Barthel Index at admission (OR=0.983, p < 0.001), orthopedic surgery (OR=0.118, p < 0.001), and higher BRASS scores (OR=0.842, p < 0.001). Functional independence significantly influences discharge destination in geriatric surgical patients. Integrating standardized preoperative functional assessments alongside clinical and sociodemographic variables may improve discharge planning.