Costs and predictors of early readmissions in patients with Infective Endocarditis. Utilizing the Nationwide Readmission Database.

BACKGROUND: There have been previous studies detailing the variables involved in readmissions in patients with a primary admission diagnosis of infective endocarditis, however those studies were done prior to the 2015 change in AHA guidelines and introduction to ICD10 codes. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to describe the frequency, causes, factors, and costs associated with infective endocarditis encounters. METHODS: Utilizing the 2017 national readmission database (NRD), we identified all patients that were admitted with infective endocarditis. These patients were evaluated for the rates, predictors, and costs of unplanned 30 days readmissions. Weighted analysis was performed to obtain nationally representative data. RESULTS: 56,357 patients were identified to have been admitted with a diagnosis of infective endocarditis of whom 13,004 patients (23%) were readmitted within 30 days of the index discharge. The most common causes of readmission were septicemia (15.1%), endocarditis and endocardial disease (10.5%), heart failure (9.5%), and complication of cardiovascular device, implant or graft, initial encounter (5.6%). Data showed that there were certain comorbidities that resulted in a higher risk of being readmitted, these include chronic kidney disease, COPD, tobacco use, and hepatic failure. Cost of readmissions per patient was approximately $22,059 (IQR $11,630 to $49,964). CONCLUSIONS: Thirty-day unplanned readmissions remain a significant issue affecting nearly 1 in 6 patients with infective endocarditis. This is associated with significant mortality and financial burden. Multi-disciplinary approach may help decrease readmissions, reduce complications, and improve overall outcomes as well as the overall quality of life of our patients.