Wagner SC, et al. - In this study, the ACS-NSQIP registry were retrospectively reviewed to determine the incidence of and risk factors for delay of elective lumbar fusion surgery, as well as medical and surgical complications associated with surgical delay. As per the observations, medical system resource utilization can be influenced by delays in elective surgery. This can further result in increased costs and worse patient outcomes. Risk factors for surgical delay in lumbar fusion beyond the day of admission included chronic steroid use and higher American Society of Anesthesiologists class. Patients with these factors were found to be at increased risk for significant complications postoperatively. Thorough medical evaluation and preoperative optimization may be indicated for these patients.