Work

Imaging surveillance for thoracic aortic aneurysms in Medicare beneficiaries

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Regular imaging surveillance is guideline-recommended for the management of thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) but has not been well described in clinical practice. Here we evaluated the frequency of imaging procedures and associated outcomes, procedures, and healthcare costs in patients with TAA. Methods: A retrospective cohort study of inpatient and professional claims for 28,459 Medicare beneficiaries age ≥65 years with a diagnosis of TAA between 2017 and 2019 was performed. Imaging types (computed tomography, magnetic resonance angiography, or transthoracic echocardiography) were identified from professional claims for beneficiaries with TAA during the 2 calendar years and categorized as any (yes vs no) and number of imaging procedures. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate the association of patient and clinical factors with undergoing any imaging and to compare clinical outcomes (surgical intervention, all-cause mortality, and hospitalization) across imaging types. Results: < .001). Conclusions: Imaging for TAA is underutilized among Medicare beneficiaries, and more frequent imaging is associated with more frequent surgical intervention, hospitalization, and lower mortality.

Source: JTCVS Open

DOI: 10.1016/j.xjon.2025.05.004

Authors: Roxanne S. Steijn, Hechuan Hou, Nicholas S. Burris, Joost van Herwaarden, Himanshu J. Patel, Michael P. Thompson

Institutions: University of Michigan, Reinier de Graaf Hospital, Michigan Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht

Language: English

Topic: Aortic Disease and Treatment Approaches

Subfield: Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,431