ICU readmission notably raises mortality risk in surgical patients

A systematic review of 23 studies highlights a significant correlation between ICU readmission and increased mortality risk in surgical patients, with an odds ratio of 8.44. The overall readmission rate stood at 6%, notably higher in gastrointestinal (9%) and thoracic (8%) surgeries. Respiratory complications emerged as the leading cause, accounting for 40% of readmissions. This research underscores the heightened mortality and extended recovery times associated with readmissions in this patient population.