Risk factors for hospital readmission among patients with cirrhosis and ascites in China: a retrospective observational study

Abstract

Objective In this investigation, we aimed to explore risk factors for 90-day hospital readmission among patients with cirrhosis and ascites in an Asian population. Methods In this retrospective study, we included consecutive patients diagnosed with cirrhosis and ascites hospitalized in Renji Hospital between 2018 and 2022 to elucidate risk factors for 90-day readmission. We conducted multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify readmission risk factors. Results We included 265 patients with cirrhosis and ascites. A 43% readmission rate was observed within 90 days. After adjustment for multiple covariates, we found that readmission within 90 days was independently linked to reduced levels of hemoglobin (odds ratio [OR] 0.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.94–0.97) and serum albumin (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.83–0.93), and higher Model for End-Stage Liver Disease and sodium (MELD-Na) scores (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.01–1.07) at discharge. Conclusions Patients with cirrhosis who have ascites are frequently rehospitalized within 90 days after discharge. Lower hemoglobin or albumin and higher MELD-Na scores at discharge may be the main risk factors for hospital readmission.