Thirty-day readmission rates and associated risk factors after coronary artery bypass grafting

OBJECTIVES: Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is among the most frequently performed cardiac surgical procedures. However, it is associated with high readmission rates for a plethora of causes, which can substantially increase healthcare costs. This study aimed to assess the rates and associated risk factors of 30-day readmissions for CABG patients. METHODS: We conducted this retrospective cohort study at King Abdulaziz Medical City. The study targeted adult patients who underwent CABG between January 1, 2016, and January 31, 2019. Data were extracted from the BEST Care system. Frequencies and percentages were generated for categorical variables. Mean and standard deviation were calculated for quantitative variables. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regressions were used to detect readmission risk factors. RESULTS: Among 534 adult patients, the overall 30-day readmission rate was 16.1% (n = 86). The multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that diabetes mellitus (P = .002), amiodarone use (P = .04), statin use (P = .04), amlodipine use (P = .006), asthma (P < .001), and hyperlipidemia (P = .04) were significantly correlated with 30-day readmission. CONCLUSIONS: Our study showed an estimated 16.1% 30-day readmission rate after CABG. Diabetes mellitus, asthma, hyperlipidemia, and use of medications such as amiodarone, statins, and amlodipine were associated with readmission. Further studies are needed to develop tailored and practical strategies to reduce CABG readmissions and mitigate patient and health care facility burdens.