TITLE:
Analysis of Inter-Hospital Pediatric Surgical Transfers: Patient Demographics, Clinical Characteristics, and System Implications
AUTHORS:
Qiang Wang, Yongling Song, Yan Hong, Yanhuan Mao, Yongxian Liang, Zihao Tan, Rong Chen, Guangming Liu
KEYWORDS:
Pediatric Surgical Transfer, Neonatal Transport, Congenital Anomalies, Inter-Hospital Coordination, Resource Allocation, Critical Care Transport
JOURNAL NAME:
Surgical Science,
Vol.16 No.12,
December
22,
2025
ABSTRACT: Objective: This study aims to comprehensively analyze the demographic, clinical, and logistical profiles of pediatric surgical patients undergoing inter-hospital transfers. By examining the level of referring hospitals, geographic origins, age distribution, diagnostic categories, respiratory support needs, and final admitting departments, we seek to identify patterns in transfer demand, evaluate the efficiency of current transfer systems, and propose evidence-based strategies for optimizing resource allocation and clinical pathways. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 408 pediatric surgical transfer cases recorded between January 1 and September 30, 2025. Data were extracted from the institutional transfer database and electronic medical records. Descriptive statistics were employed to summarize categorical and continuous variables, with results presented as frequencies and percentages. Results: The analysis revealed that a majority of transfers originated from tertiary hospitals (70.8%), with a significant proportion coming from other cities within the province (58.3%). Neonates (0 - 28 days) constituted the largest age group (54.2%), and over 80% of all transferred patients were under one year of age. Congenital heart disease (16.9%) and intracranial hemorrhage (11.0%) were the most frequent diagnoses. Regarding respiratory support, 24.0% of patients required invasive ventilation during transfer. The primary receiving departments were neonatal and pediatric intensive care units (NICU: 31.6%, SNICU: 22.3%). Conclusion: Pediatric surgical transfers are characterized by a high volume of critically ill neonates with complex congenital conditions, necessitating advanced respiratory and surgical care. These findings underscore the pivotal role of tertiary pediatric centers within regionalized care networks. To enhance system efficiency and patient outcomes, we recommend the standardization of transfer protocols, strengthening of telemedicine support for referring hospitals, and the development of specialized transport teams equipped for neonatal and surgical critical care.