Possible Preventable Causes of Unplanned Readmission After Elective Liver Resection, Results from a Non-academic Referral HPB Center

Abstract

Introduction: Unplanned readmission is a common event after liver resection, and it is a burden for both patients and healthcare policy makers. This study evaluates the incidence of and reasons for unplanned readmission after liver resection, in order to identify possible preventable causes.

Methods: In this single-center cohort study, data from patients who underwent liver resection for both malignant and benign indications from 2001 to 2016 at our institute were collected from a database with prospective data. Readmissions were analyzed for their reasons and risk factors. Patients with general complaints with no specific complications were categorized as failure to thrive.

Results: In 406 patients, the readmission rate was 11.6%. Most patients were readmitted because of failure to thrive (35%), deep and superficial surgical site infection (28%), or cardiopulmonary complications (15%). A multivariate analysis revealed that unplanned readmission was associated with the occurrence of complications during index admission-with an odds ratio of 4.69 (CI 2.41-9.12, p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Readmission occurs in more than 1 in 10 patients after liver resection, and it is associated with a complicated course during index admission. One-third of readmissions occur because of failure to thrive and might be preventable. Future research in strategies to reduce readmission rates should focus on both the prevention of complications during index admission and programs at the interface between primary and secondary care.