Kremic L, Jaffer A, Patel K, et al.
Anesthesiology (June 19, 2025). doi:10.1097/ALN.0000000000005626
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the relationship between preoperative depression and postoperative length of stay (LOS) in surgical patients. Among 57 studies involving over 27 million patients, those with preoperative depression had a significantly longer hospital stay—on average 0.98 days more than non-depressed counterparts (95% CI 0.35–1.62). Secondary analyses showed a modestly increased risk of extended LOS, with adjusted odds ratios of 1.27 (95% CI 1.11–1.46). Despite concerns about risk of bias and publication bias, these findings support the clinical relevance of preoperative depression as a modifiable risk factor. Screening and intervention for depressive symptoms prior to surgery may offer opportunities to improve recovery and resource utilization, although more research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of such strategies.
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