Influencing Postoperative Length of Stay: Implications for Hospital Management in Head and Neck Cancer Care

This study explores the factors affecting the length of stay (LOS) in patients undergoing surgical treatment for head and neck cancer at Antonio Cardarelli Hospital between 2019 and 2022. Data from 492 patients were analyzed, focusing on variables such as age, gender, illness severity, mortality risk, and DRG weight. Descriptive statistics were computed, and a multiple linear regression model was used to identify predictors of postoperative LOS. The results showed that DRG weight was a significant determinant of postoperative LOS, reflecting the influence of procedural complexity on hospitalization duration. Other factors, including age, gender, urgency, and illness severity, did not show significant associations. These findings emphasize the importance of DRG classification in optimizing hospital workflows and resource management for head and neck cancer care, providing valuable insights for future research and clinical practice.