Predictive factors of length of inpatient treatment in anorexia nervosa

Objective To identify clinical variables influencing the length of stay (LOS) of inpatient treatment for anorexia nervosa (AN). Method We analyzed structured clinical charts of 300 consecutive hospitalizations for AN in a specialized eating disorder unit. The sample included patients from 12 to 22 years old. Factors related to the patient and events occurring during the stay were investigated as possible predictors of LOS. Results Mean LOS was 135 days. The best model of linear regression revealed that the following factors were significantly related to LOS: duration of AN at admission, use of tube feeding during the stay, accomplishment of the therapeutic weight contract and presence of a comorbid disorder. Conclusions The identification of factors influencing duration of stay, both at the outset and during the hospitalization, could help clinicians to optimize and individualize treatments, as well as increase patient and family compliance.