The prevalence of 30‐day readmission after acute myocardial infarction: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

OBJECTIVE: The 30‐day readmission is associated with increased medical costs, which has become an important quality metric in several medical institutions. This current study is aimed at clarifying the prevalence, the underlying risk factors, and reasons of the 30‐day readmission after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). METHODS: PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE were systematically searched to identify eligible studies. Random‐effect models were employed to perform pooled analyses. Means and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to estimate prevalence and reasons for 30‐day readmission. We also used Odds ratios (ORs) to explore the potential significant predictors of risk factors of 30‐day readmission after AMI. Potential publication bias was assessed using funnel plot and Begg'test. RESULTS: A total of 14 relevant studies were included in this systematic review and meta‐analysis. The pooled 30‐day readmission rate of AMI was 12% (95% CI 0.11‐0.14). Acute coronary syndrome (ACS), angina and acute ischemic heart disease, and heart failure (HF) were the principal cardiovascular reasons of 30‐day readmission. Meanwhile, non‐specific chest pain was regarded as the significant cause among non‐cardiovascular reasons. The common co‐morbidities kidney disease, HF and diabetes mellitus were significant risk factors for 30‐day readmission. No significant publication bias was found by funnel plot and statistical tests. CONCLUSIONS: The 30‐day readmission rate of post‐AMI ranged from 11% to 14% and can be mainly attributed to cardiovascular and non‐cardiovascular events. The common co‐morbidities, such as kidney disease, HF, and diabetes mellitus were significant risk factors for 30‐day readmission.