Practice variations, chance and quality of care

Abstract

"However, despite continuing improvements in anesthesiology, cardiac surgery and postoperative care, outcomes research has shown that rates of in-hospital death have remained relatively constant since 1987.1 This paradox is perhaps explained by changes in case-mix, whereby older and sicker populations now undergo cardiac surgery. To better assess individual risks it would be helpful if Ghali and colleagues were eventually to publish their results according to clinically germane subgroups"