Predictors for hospital readmission after cardiac surgery

Unplanned hospital readmissions are responsible for increased health care costs and have direct influence on patient quality of life. The aim of the study was to determine the predictors for hospital readmission after open-heart surgery.

Prospective study analyzed all patients who underwent cardiac surgery in the year 2012. Follow-up period was one year from the date of operation. Patients were divided in two groups based on their readmission status.

In the study period of one year, 1268 patients who underwent cardiac surgery were included. A total of 121 patients (9.54%) were readmitted within one year after the operation. The main reasons for readmission were congestive heart failure (17.3%), sternal dehiscence (14.9%), rhythm and conduction disturbances (14.9%), wound infection (11.6%), recurrent angina pectoris (11.6%), and pericardial effusion (10.7%). Independent predictors for hospital readmission were previous stroke (p = 0.002), chronic heart failure (p < 0.0005), and postoperative pericardial effusion (p = 0.006).

Our study determined risk factors and predictors for hospital readmission after cardiac surgery. This may help to reduce readmission rates.