The purpose of this study is to explore strategies to improve mitral valve repair (MVr) outcomes. This research explores postoperative outcomes of patients undergoing MVr surgery by single center surgeons versus patients of multicenter surgeons. Specific outcomes of interest include 30-day operative mortality, major operative complications (e.g., deep sternal wound infection, permanent stroke, renal dysfunction requiring dialysis, reoperation, and prolonged ventilation), length of stay, and 30-day readmissions.
In brief, the serisk-adjusted outcome rates for surgeons that perform mitral valve repair procedures will be compared for surgeons that operate at a single center [i.e. SC surgeons] versus multiple centers [i.e. MC surgeons]. The overarching study hypothesis is:
H(0) There will be no difference in the risk-adjusted outcome rates between surgeons that operate at a single center [i.e. SC surgeons] versus multiple centers [i.e. MC surgeons].
Based on prior research, however, it is anticipated that single center surgeons may have superior outcomes compared to multi-center surgeons
