The impact of socio-economic deprivation on recovery following robotic assisted radical cystectomy

Background: Despite enhanced recovery programmes, length of stay is variable following robotic assisted radical cystectomy (RARC). The aim of this study was to assess the impact socioeconomic deprivation on recovery following RARC. Methods: The prospectively maintained RARC databases at two tertiary referral hospitals were reviewed from 2015 to 2017. Demographic, histological, and outcome data including length of stay (LOS), operation time and blood loss were recorded. The Index of Multiple Deprivation, was chosen as a deprivation index as this is used by the UK government to direct funding and resources to regions, towns and postal codes by assessing a number of indicators. Results: During the study period, 340 consecutive patients underwent RARC. Deprivation deciles were significantly higher in site 1 patients (7.9 in site 1 vs 6.6 in site 2, p < 0.001) implying that these patients are more likely to have higher incomes, levels of education and improved living environments. The mean operating time was longer in the site 1 cohort (397 vs 366 min, p > 0.001) with a reduced mean blood loss volume (252 and 484 mL, p < 0.001). There was a significant difference in mean LOS (6.2 days in site 1 vs 10.6 days in site 2, p < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, a higher deprivation decile did not predict LOS (OR = 1, 95% CI = 0.9-1.1, p = 0.407). Sex and operation site were however significantly associated with LOS (p = 0.006 and <0.001). Conclusion: Recovery following RARC was independent of socioeconomic status when comparing two hospitals with diverse catchment areas in the UK.