Analysis of the Status Quo and Influencing Factors of Revisiting Patients After Pituitary Tumor Resection: Based on a Chinese Patient Population

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the status of patients’ post-pituitary tumor resection and analyze influencing factors, providing evidence for improved long-term management. Methods: The authors screened 1209 patients who underwent pituitary tumor resection at Zhejiang University’s Second Affiliated Hospital from August 2020 to July 2022 using electronic medical records. Patients were classified into return visits (≥2 reviews/y or within 6 mo) and missing visit groups. Demographic and disease-related data were extracted from inpatient records, whereas return visits and prognosis data were collected from outpatient records and phone inquiries. Propensity score matching (1:1) was used to balance the groups, followed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to identify influencing factors. Results: Of the 1209 patients, 113 were unreachable. The study included 1095 patients, with 553 (50.5%) in the missing visit group and 542 (49.5%) in the return visit group. The authors matched 421 pairs, achieving balanced baseline data. Univariate analysis revealed significant differences in residence, unplanned readmission history, and current outcomes (P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis identified unplanned readmission history (odds ratio = 0.495, 95% CI: 0.307–0.799) as a protective factor. City residents had higher return visit rates than those from other provinces (odds ratio = 0.269, 95% CI: 0.610–1.579). Conclusion: Postdischarge return rates for pituitary tumor resection patients are low and influenced by various factors. Improving return visit policies and systems is essential for facilitating outpatient follow-ups.