Colectomy Outcomes in the U.S. Improve Significantly from 2012 to 2020

Significant improvements in postoperative outcomes after colectomy in the United States were observed between 2012 and 2020. The adoption of quality improvement initiatives led to a decrease in postoperative length of stay, rates of surgical site infections, and pulmonary embolism. Notably, mortality rates remained unchanged. Specifically, undergoing a colectomy in 2020 compared to 2012 was associated with a 14% decrease in postoperative length of stay. These findings highlight the positive impact of national quality improvement initiatives on colorectal patient care.