Incidence of and Risk Factors for Multiple Readmissions after Kidney Transplantation

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Transplant Surgery
• Surgical Quality Metrics

Background:

• Unplanned readmissions are key surgical quality indicators.
• Multiple readmissions (MRs) in kidney transplant recipients lack detailed incidence and risk factor data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify risk factors for multiple readmissions (MRs) following deceased donor kidney transplantation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of 141 deceased donor kidney transplant recipients over three years.
• Analysis of patient demographics, transplant details, and outcomes to identify factors associated with MR.
• Statistical significance determined by P values <0.05.

Main Results:

• 30.5% of patients experienced MRs, with infection being the most common reason for initial readmission (23.3%).
• Increased risk for MR was associated with diabetes, basiliximab induction, acute rejection, and unplanned reoperations.
• MR was linked to reduced one-year patient survival and death-censored graft survival.

Conclusions:

• Approximately 30% of kidney transplant recipients experience MRs, primarily due to infection and immunologic issues.
• Diabetic recipients and those with acute rejection are at significantly higher risk for MR.
• Identifying and mitigating MR risk factors is crucial for improving long-term outcomes in kidney transplant patients.