tacrolimus and Pericardial-Effusion

Survival in patients with refractory heart failure greatly improves after heart transplantation (HTx).. To evaluate the rate of unplanned readmission within the first year post-HTx and the causes of such readmission.. 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.. 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.. 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.

Topics: Antibodies, Monoclonal; Antilymphocyte Serum; Basiliximab; Biopsy; Cyclosporine; Follow-Up Studies; Graft Rejection; Heart Transplantation; Humans; Immunosuppressive Agents; Patient Care Planning; Patient Readmission; Pericardial Effusion; Recombinant Fusion Proteins; Retrospective Studies; Tacrolimus; Taiwan; Time Factors