Variations in Data Collection Methods Between National Databases Affect Study Results: A Comparison of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample and National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Databases for Lumbar Spine Fusion Procedures

Abstract

As database studies become more prevalent in orthopaedic surgery, authors, reviewers, and readers should view these studies with caution. This study shows that two commonly used databases can identify demographically similar patients undergoing a common orthopaedic procedure; however, the databases document markedly different rates of comorbidities and inpatient adverse events. The differences are likely the result of the very different mechanisms through which the databases collect their comorbidity and adverse event data. Findings highlight concerns regarding the validity of orthopaedic database research.