Unplanned Readmissions After Surgical Repair of Congenital Heart Defects at a Tertiary Care Hospital.

INTRODUCTION

Unplanned readmissions following surgical repair of congenital heart defects (CHDs) in children have significant clinical and health care challenges. This study aims to investigate their frequency and identify the diverse risk factors associated with various CHD repair procedures.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted at King Faisal Cardiac Center, including 182 pediatric patients who underwent surgical repair of CHD between 2016 and 2024. Data were collected on patient demographics, comorbidities and perioperative factors. Statistical analysis, including Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier survival estimates, were performed to identify predictors of unplanned readmissions.

RESULTS

Unplanned readmissions occurred in 28.5% of cases, with respiratory infections being the most common cause (44.2%). Significant predictors of readmission included lower weight (P = 0.005), younger age (P = 0.038), higher risk adjustment for congenital heart surgery scores (P = 0.012), and comorbidities (P < 0.001). The use of a cross clamp was associated with a higher risk of early readmission (hazard ratio 3.0, P = 0.024), whereas Del Nido cardioplegia was linked to a decreased readmission rate (P = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

Unplanned readmissions following CHD surgery are common, with respiratory infections being the predominant cause. Identification of risk factors, including patient age, body weight, comorbidities, and specific surgical techniques, can guide targeted preventive strategies and enhance postoperative clinical outcomes.