Modern readmission rates after head trauma

A report on head trauma using the 2014 National Readmission Database described a significant readmission rate of 8.9%. This study was undertaken to reevaluate the rate based on more granular ICD10 codes and to identify any factors associated with readmission that may be targeted to reduce readmission.

Patients were identified from the 2019 National Readmission Database with an ICD10 code for head trauma. Readmission was defined as occurring within 30 days of initial hospital admission. Comparisons were made using chi square, Mann Whitney rank sum, or multivariable logistic regression.

The readmission rate was 5.0%. The rate was higher among men (5.6% vs 4.3%, P < 0.001) and patients ≥65 years of age (5.8% vs 3.9%, P < 0.001). Multiple injuries, discharge against medical advice, and government insurance were associated with higher rates. The mortality rate among those readmitted was 4.34%. Among patients readmitted, the most common primary nontrauma diagnoses were seizure disorder (7.7%) and cerebrovascular disease (3.4%). Younger patients had a higher rate of readmission for seizures (10.3% vs 6.1%, P < 0.001) and a lower rate of cerebrovascular disease (2.3% vs 6.4%, P = 0.004).

The readmission rate was lower than previously described. Quality metrics used by hospitals should use the revised numbers. Based on the data, we suggest possible interventions to reduce readmission, including a trial among younger men of empirical antiepileptic medications and of prophylactic or continued antibiotics among elderly patients. These interventions should be evaluated to determine if they could reduce readmission, particularly among patients who leave against medical advice.