Unplanned readmission within 1 year after heart transplantation in Taiwan.

INTRODUCTION

Survival in patients with refractory heart failure greatly improves after heart transplantation (HTx).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the rate of unplanned readmission within the first year post-HTx and the causes of such readmission.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

From January 2005 to June 2008, the 112 patients who underwent HTx were regularly followed up at our hospital. A protocol biopsy was performed every week during the first month, then every 3 months during the first year. Any unplanned readmission was discussed in detail in a transplantation meeting. Data were collected from review of medical records.

RESULTS

The rate of unplanned readmission was 19.3% in 2005, 21.5% in 2006, 22.2% in 2007, and 20.3% in 2008. Infection was the primary cause leading to unplanned readmission in 2005 (51.5%), 2006 (42.9%), and 2008 (30.7%). Rejection was the primary cause leading to readmission in 2007 (40%). Other causes included fluid retention, pericardial effusion, anemia, and systemic diseases.

CONCLUSION

To reduce unplanned readmissions and to promote quality of life and long-term survival, health professionals must meticulously monitor the adverse effects of treatments including immunosuppression agents and concomitantly used medications.