HRS/ACC Scientific Statement: Guiding Principles on Same-Day Discharge for Intracardiac Catheter Ablation Procedures

Area of Science:

• Interventional Cardiology
• Cardiac Electrophysiology
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Percutaneous catheter ablation techniques have advanced, improving efficiency and outcomes.
• Growing access limitations and economic pressures necessitate optimized resource utilization.
• A same-day discharge (SDD) strategy is emerging to address these challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze global clinical data and real-world evidence on cardiac ablation SDD.
• To examine the impact of SDD on patient safety, access, efficiency, and costs.
• To characterize best practices for implementing SDD in cardiac ablation.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of global clinical studies and real-world evidence, including US CMS claims data.
• Evaluation of patient safety, access, operational efficiencies, and healthcare expenditures.
• Characterization of recommended best practices based on shared decision-making.

Main Results:

• SDD strategies are supported by proof-of-concept studies and real-world data.
• Low incidence of complications, readmissions, and emergency department visits observed.
• SDD demonstrates potential for improved patient access and optimized resource utilization.

Conclusions:

• Cardiac ablation with a same-day discharge strategy is safe and effective.
• SDD enhances operational efficiencies and reduces healthcare expenditures.
• Shared decision-making and outcome tracking are crucial for successful SDD implementation.