Understanding Variations in the Use of Surgery

Abstract

This chapter details the origins of the study of variations in health care, with special attention to variations in the use, indications, and outcomes in surgery. We review the initial studies that demonstrated the value of this methodology, describe how the study of variations allows insight into surgical practice, and how limiting variation can improve patient outcomes across a variety of surgical specialties. Finally, we note how the study of variation can be used to inform care for patients and be used for early outcome detection by device and drug regulators.