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Harris KB, Gonzalez HC, Gordon SC. The Health Care Burden of Hepatic Encephalopathy. Clin Liver Dis 2024; 28:265-272. [PMID: 38548438 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2024.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy-a common and debilitating complication of cirrhosis-results in major health care burden on both patients and caregivers through direct and indirect costs. In addition to risk of falls, inability to work and drive, patients with hepatic encephalopathy often require hospital admission (and often readmission), and many require subacute care following hospitalization. The costs and psychological impact of liver transplantation often ensue. As the prevalence of chronic liver disease increases throughout the United States, the health care burden of hepatic encephalopathy will continue to grow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin B Harris
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Humberto C Gonzalez
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI, USA; Wayne State University, School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Stuart C Gordon
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI, USA; Wayne State University, School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.
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2
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Lin E, Gandhi D, Volk M. Preventing Readmissions of Hepatic Encephalopathy: Strategies in the Acute Inpatient, Immediate Postdischarge, and Longitudinal Outpatient Setting. Clin Liver Dis 2024; 28:359-367. [PMID: 38548445 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2024.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a strong predictor of early hospital readmission in patients with cirrhosis. Early hospital readmission increases health care costs and is associated with worse survival. Herein we provide an overview of strategies to prevent hospital readmissions in patients with HE, divided into 3 contexts: (a) acute inpatient, (b) immediate postdischarge, and (c) longitudinal outpatient setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Devika Gandhi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA.
| | - Michael Volk
- Department of Medicine, Baylor Scott and White, Central Texas Region, Temple, TX, USA
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3
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Maharshi S, Sharma BC. Prophylaxis of hepatic encephalopathy: current and future drug targets. Hepatol Int 2024:10.1007/s12072-024-10647-9. [PMID: 38492132 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-024-10647-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy is described by a broad spectrum of neurological and psychiatric aberrations resulting due to advanced liver dysfunction. It is a neurological disorder due to hepatic insufficiency and/or portosystemic shunts. Its clinical presentation includes neuropsychiatric dysfunction ranging from subclinical changes to comatose state. It is a sign of poor prognosis in cirrhotics with a high 1-year mortality. Each episode of hepatic encephalopathy leads to high hospitalization rate, poor prognosis and raised burden of healthcare. Primary prophylaxis is prevention of initial occurrence and secondary prophylaxis is prevention of reappearance of hepatic encephalopathy in subjects who had prior history. Early detection and management of triggers is very important in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy. The initial choice of treatment is still lactulose, as it is effective in minimal, overt, and recurrent hepatic encephalopathy. Rifaximin is equally effective as lactulose in managing hepatic encephalopathy and is better tolerated. Branch chain amino acids are beneficial in subjects who are protein intolerant. L-ornithine L-aspartate and probiotics are also useful in the management of hepatic encephalopathy. Rifaximin along with lactulose is effective in managing overt and recurrent hepatic encephalopathy. Large portosystemic shunts embolization and liver transplant is efficacious in certain group of patients. Nutritional therapy and fecal microbiota transplantation are newer therapies for hepatic encephalopathy but the evidences are limited, more research is required to prove their efficacy. Involvement of hospital pharmacists, telemedicine, and providing education are also beneficial in managing hepatic encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudhir Maharshi
- Department of Gastroenterology, SMS Medical College and Hospitals, Jaipur, India
| | - Barjesh Chander Sharma
- Department of Gastroenterology, G.B. Pant Hospital, Room No. 201, Academic Block, New Delhi, 110002, India.
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Kalo E, Baig A, Gregg E, George J, Read S, Ma WS, Ahlenstiel G. A novel, nurse-led 'one stop' clinic for patients with liver cirrhosis results in fewer liver-related unplanned readmissions and improved survival. BMC Gastroenterol 2023; 23:356. [PMID: 37845625 PMCID: PMC10578021 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-023-02986-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Delivering effective secondary preventive and integrated care has the potential to break the revolving-door phenomenon of frequent readmissions in patients with advanced chronic liver disease. To address this, we launched the Care Coordination of Liver Disease (CCoLD) pilot, a novel nurse-led cirrhosis clinic in Western Sydney. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Following an index presentation to Blacktown or Mount Druitt hospitals (BMDH), patients (n = 89, matched by age, sex, and MELD-NA) were consecutively either followed up by the CCoLD clinical nurse consultant (intervention cohort) or received standard care (control cohort). Controlled evaluation of the impact of the nurse-led clinic was carried out for a 3-month period including readmission rates, survival, and cost effectiveness. RESULTS The inaugural nurse-led clinic led to improvement in patient-level outcomes including a reduction in unplanned liver-related readmissions (2.08% for intervention cohort vs 12.2% for control cohort, p < 0.01), and mortality at 30 days (0% for intervention cohort vs 7.3% for control cohort, p = 0.03). Similar trends were observed at 90 days from index discharge. No deaths were observed in the intervention cohort as compared to the control cohort at 90 days (0% versus 7.3%, p = 0.03), while unplanned liver-related readmissions were 10.41% for the intervention cohort vs 19.5% for the control cohort (p = 0.115). Moreover, time to readmission was significantly longer in the intervention cohort, resulting in an overall cost-effective intervention. CONCLUSION These findings highlight the significant impact of optimised care-coordination. A nurse-led clinic can deliver patient-centred, goal-directed, and cost-effective secondary prevention and care. A multicentre randomised trial for wider evaluation of these findings is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Kalo
- Blacktown Clinical School and Research Centre, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, 18 Blacktown Road, Blacktown, NSW, 2148, Australia
- Blacktown Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District, Blacktown, NSW, 2148, Australia
| | - Asma Baig
- Blacktown Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District, Blacktown, NSW, 2148, Australia
| | - Emily Gregg
- Blacktown Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District, Blacktown, NSW, 2148, Australia
| | - Jacob George
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
- Westmead Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Scott Read
- Blacktown Clinical School and Research Centre, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, 18 Blacktown Road, Blacktown, NSW, 2148, Australia
- Blacktown Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District, Blacktown, NSW, 2148, Australia
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Wai-See Ma
- Blacktown Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District, Blacktown, NSW, 2148, Australia
| | - Golo Ahlenstiel
- Blacktown Clinical School and Research Centre, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, 18 Blacktown Road, Blacktown, NSW, 2148, Australia.
- Blacktown Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District, Blacktown, NSW, 2148, Australia.
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia.
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Pandico F, Citarella A, Cammarota S, Bernardi FF, Claar E, Coppola C, Cozzolino M, De Rosa F, Di Gennaro M, Fogliasecca M, Giordana R, Pacella D, Russo A, Salerno V, Scafa L, Trama U. Rifaximin Use, Adherence and Persistence in Patients with Hepatic Encephalopathy: A Real-World Study in the South of Italy. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4515. [PMID: 37445550 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Real-world data on the therapeutic management of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) patients are limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the HE medications prescribed in an Italian cohort of HE patients post-discharge and to assess the real-world rifaximin adherence and persistence over 1 year. An observation retrospective study was conducted using data retrieved from outpatient pharmaceutical databases and hospital discharge records of the Campania region. For all subjects hospitalized for HE during 2019 (cohort 1), the HE medications prescribed within 60 days after discharge were evaluated. Adherence (proportion of days covered, PDC) and persistence were estimated for rifaximin 550 mg incident users over 1 year (cohort 2). Patients with PDC ≥80% were considered adherents. Persistence was defined as the period of time from the first rifaximin prescription to the date of discontinuation. Discontinuation was assessed using the permissible gap method. In cohort 1, 544 patients were identified; 58.5% received rifaximin while 15.6% only received non-absorbable disaccharides and 25.9% did not receive any HE medications. In cohort 2, 650 users were selected; only 54.5% were adherents and 35% were persistent users at 1 year. This real-world study highlights that quality improvement in therapeutic management is needed to potentially improve the outcomes of HE patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fulvio Pandico
- Department of Territorial Pharmaceuticals, Local Health Authority of Caserta, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Anna Citarella
- LinkHealth Health Economics, Outcomes & Epidemiology S.R.L., 80143 Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Cammarota
- LinkHealth Health Economics, Outcomes & Epidemiology S.R.L., 80143 Naples, Italy
| | | | - Ernesto Claar
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology Unit, Ospedale Evangelico Betania, 80147 Naples, Italy
| | - Carmine Coppola
- Unit of Hepatology and Interventional Ultrasonography, Department of Internal Medicine, OORR Area Stabiese, 80054 Gragnano, Italy
| | - Marianna Cozzolino
- Department of Territorial Pharmaceuticals, Local Health Authority of Caserta, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Federica De Rosa
- Postgraduate School in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
| | - Massimo Di Gennaro
- Innovation and Data Analytics (So.Re.Sa), Campania Region, 80143 Naples, Italy
| | - Marianna Fogliasecca
- LinkHealth Health Economics, Outcomes & Epidemiology S.R.L., 80143 Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Giordana
- Monitoring of Public Healthcare System (So.Re.Sa), Campania Region, 80143 Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Pacella
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Russo
- Monitoring of Public Healthcare System (So.Re.Sa), Campania Region, 80143 Naples, Italy
| | - Vito Salerno
- Monitoring of Public Healthcare System (So.Re.Sa), Campania Region, 80143 Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Scafa
- Monitoring of Public Healthcare System (So.Re.Sa), Campania Region, 80143 Naples, Italy
| | - Ugo Trama
- Regional Pharmaceutical Unit, Campania Region, 80143 Naples, Italy
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Ismond KP, Spiers JA, Tandon P. Identifying opportunities for hepatic encephalopathy self-management: A mixed methods systematic review and synthesis. CANADIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2023; 6:215-233. [PMID: 37503524 PMCID: PMC10370725 DOI: 10.3138/canlivj-2022-0025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Background Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) in cirrhosis is an extremely challenging complication for patients and care partners. To identify potentially modifiable factors to enhance HE self-management strategies, we conducted a synthesis of quantitative and qualitative research about real-world HE behaviours, knowledge, and experiences. Methods Using the EPPI-Centre's mixed methods synthesis procedure, a systematic literature search in five databases was completed; methods of selected articles underwent critical appraisal followed by descriptive analysis and coded line-by-line of content. Through refutational translation, the findings from the quantitative and qualitative syntheses were juxtaposed to highlight congruencies, incongruencies, or gaps. These findings informed generation of cross-analytical themes that were transformed into action statements. Results The quantitative narrative review of synthesis (n = 17) generated four themes (patients had low awareness of HE and low treatment adherence rates, physicians had a non-uniform approach to non-pharmaceutical therapies). Meta-aggregation of qualitative data from six articles yielded three themes (patients and care partners had low levels of HE awareness, were unfamiliar with HE self-management, and were adherent to treatments). Comparison of findings revealed three congruencies, two gaps, and one incongruency. The combined synthesis yielded two self-management themes: universal patient-oriented cirrhosis HE education and ensuring each health care encounter systematically addresses HE to guarantee health care is continuously modified to meet their needs. Conclusions By drawing on elements of Bloom's Taxonomy and distributed knowledge networks, deliberate patient-oriented HE messaging at all health care encounters is greatly needed to improve health outcomes and reduce care burdens related to HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen P Ismond
- Division of Gastroenterology, Liver Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jude A Spiers
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Puneeta Tandon
- Division of Gastroenterology, Liver Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Pompili E, Baldassarre M, Zaccherini G, Tufoni M, Iannone G, Pratelli D, Palmese F, Vizioli L, Faggiano C, Bedogni G, Domenicali M, Caraceni P. Low haemoglobin level predicts early hospital readmission in patients with cirrhosis and acute decompensation. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100698. [PMID: 37025944 PMCID: PMC10070139 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Patients with decompensated cirrhosis present frequent hospitalisations with a relevant clinical and socio-economic impact. This study aims to characterise unscheduled readmissions up to 1-year follow-up and identify predictors of 30-day readmission after an index hospitalisation for acute decompensation (AD). Methods We performed a secondary analysis of a prospectively collected cohort of patients admitted for AD. Laboratory and clinical data at admission and at discharge were collected. Timing and causes of unscheduled readmissions and mortality were recorded up to 1 year. Results A total of 329 patients with AD were included in the analysis. Acute-on-chronic liver failure was diagnosed in 19% of patients at admission or developed in an additional 9% of patients during the index hospitalisation. During the 1-year follow-up, 182 patients (55%) were rehospitalised and 98 (30%) more than once. The most frequent causes of readmission were hepatic encephalopathy (36%), ascites (22%), and infection (21%). Cumulative incidence of readmission was 20% at 30 days, 39% at 90 days, and 63% at 1 year. Fifty-four patients were readmitted for emergent liver-related causes within 30 days. Early readmission was associated with a higher 1-year mortality (47 vs. 32%, p = 0.037). Multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that haemoglobin (Hb) ≤8.7 g/dl (hazard ratio 2.63 [95% CI 1.38-5.02], p = 0.003) and model for end-stage liver disease-sodium score (MELD-Na) >16 at discharge (hazard ratio 2.23 [95% CI 1.27-3.93], p = 0.005), were independent predictors of early readmission. In patients with MELD-Na >16 at discharge, the presence of Hb ≤8.7 g/dl doubles the risk of early rehospitalisation (44% vs. 22%, p = 0.02). Conclusion Besides MELD-Na, a low Hb level (Hb ≤8.7 g/dl) at discharge emerged as a new risk factor for early readmission, contributing to identification of patients who require closer surveillance after discharge. Impact and Implications Patients with decompensated cirrhosis face frequent hospitalisations. In the present study, type and causes of readmissions were analysed during 1-year follow-up in patients discharged after the index hospitalisation for an acute decompensation of the disease. Early (30-day) liver-related readmission was associated with higher 1-year mortality. The model for end-stage liver disease-sodium score and low haemoglobin at discharge were identified as independent risk factors for early readmissions. Haemoglobin emerged as a new easy-to-use parameter associated with early readmission warranting further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Pompili
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maurizio Baldassarre
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Centre for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giacomo Zaccherini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Manuel Tufoni
- Unit of Semeiotics, Liver and Alcohol-related Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Iannone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Dario Pratelli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Palmese
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Primary Health Care, Internal Medicine Unit addressed to Frailty and Aging, “Santa Maria delle Croci” Ravenna Hospital, AUSL Romagna, Ravenna, Italy
| | - Luca Vizioli
- Internal Medicine Unit for the Treatment of Severe Organ Failure, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara Faggiano
- Division of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giorgio Bedogni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Primary Health Care, Internal Medicine Unit addressed to Frailty and Aging, “Santa Maria delle Croci” Ravenna Hospital, AUSL Romagna, Ravenna, Italy
| | - Marco Domenicali
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Primary Health Care, Internal Medicine Unit addressed to Frailty and Aging, “Santa Maria delle Croci” Ravenna Hospital, AUSL Romagna, Ravenna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Department of Primary Health Care, S. Maria delle Croci Hospital, AUSL Romagna, Ravenna, Italy
| | - Paolo Caraceni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Unit of Semeiotics, Liver and Alcohol-related Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Corresponding authors. Addresses: Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Unit of Semeiotics, Liver and Alcohol-related diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy. Tel.: +39-051-214-2919; fax: +39-051-214-2930.
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O’Connell MB, Bendtsen F, Nørholm V, Brødsgaard A, Kimer N. Nurse-assisted and multidisciplinary outpatient follow-up among patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis: A systematic review. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0278545. [PMID: 36758017 PMCID: PMC9910708 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Liver cirrhosis represents a considerable health burden and causes 1.2 million deaths annually. Patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis have a poor prognosis and severely reduced health-related quality of life. Nurse-led outpatient care has proven safe and feasible for several chronic diseases and engaging nurses in the outpatient care of patients with liver cirrhosis has been recommended. At the decompensated stage, the treatment and nursing care are directed at specific complications, educational support, and guidance concerning preventive measures and signs of decompensation. This review aimed to assess the effects of nurse-assisted follow-up after admission with decompensation in patients with liver cirrhosis from all causes. METHOD A systematic search was conducted through February 2022. Studies were eligible for inclusion if i) they assessed adult patients diagnosed with liver cirrhosis that had been admitted with one or more complications to liver cirrhosis and ii) if nurse-assisted follow-up, including nurse-assisted multidisciplinary interventions, was described in the manuscript. Randomized clinical trials were prioritized, but controlled trials and prospective cohort studies with the intervention were also included. Primary outcomes were mortality and readmission, but secondary subjective outcomes were also assessed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION We included eleven controlled studies and five prospective studies with a historical control group comprising 1224 participants. Overall, the studies were of moderate to low quality, and heterogeneity across studies was substantial. In a descriptive summary, the 16 studies were divided into three main types of interventions: educational interventions, case management, and standardized hospital follow-up. We saw a significant improvement across all types of studies on several parameters, but currently, no data support a specific type of nurse-assisted, post-discharge intervention. Controlled trials with a predefined intervention evaluating clinically- and practice-relevant endpoints in a real-life, patient-oriented setting are highly warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malene Barfod O’Connell
- Gastrounit, Medical Division, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- * E-mail:
| | - Flemming Bendtsen
- Gastrounit, Medical Division, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Vibeke Nørholm
- Clinical Research Department, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Anne Brødsgaard
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Public Health, Section for Nursing, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Nina Kimer
- Gastrounit, Medical Division, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
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Rosenstengle C, Kripalani S, Rahimi RS. Hepatic encephalopathy and strategies to prevent readmission from inadequate transitions of care. J Hosp Med 2022; 17 Suppl 1:S17-S23. [PMID: 35972038 DOI: 10.1002/jhm.12896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
One of the most costly and frequent causes of hospital readmissions in the United States is hepatic encephalopathy in patients with underlying liver cirrhosis. In this narrative review, we cover current practices in inpatient management, transitions of care, and strategies to prevent hospital readmissions. Bundled approaches using a model such as the "Ideal Transitions of Care" appear to be more likely to prevent readmissions and assist patients as they transition to outpatient care. Numerous strategies have been evaluated to prevent readmissions in patients with hepatic encephalopathy, including technologic interventions, involvement of nonphysician team members, early follow-up strategies, and involvement of palliative care when appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig Rosenstengle
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Sunil Kripalani
- Section of Hospital Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine and Public Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Robert S Rahimi
- Annette C. and Harold C. Simmons Transplant Institute, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
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10
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Hepatic Encephalopathy-Related Hospitalizations in Cirrhosis: Transition of Care and Closing the Revolving Door. Dig Dis Sci 2022; 67:1994-2004. [PMID: 34169435 PMCID: PMC9167177 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-021-07075-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Cirrhosis is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Development of complications of cirrhosis, including hepatic encephalopathy (HE), portends poorer outcomes. HE is associated with hospital readmission, impaired patient and caregiver quality of life, risk of falls, and mortality. Guidelines recommend lactulose as first-line therapy for HE and rifaximin in combination with lactulose for reducing the risk of HE recurrence. Improving post-discharge outcomes, including readmissions, is an important aspect in the management of patients with HE. Approaches focused on improving management and prevention of HE, including properly titrating lactulose dosing, overcoming medication-related nonadherence, and incorporating rifaximin as therapy to reduce the risk of recurrence, as well as incorporating supportive care initiatives, may ease the transition from hospital to home. Strategies to decrease readmission rates include using hospital navigators, who can offer patient/caregiver education, post-discharge planning, and medication review; and involving pharmacists in post-discharge planning. Similarly, telemedicine offers providers the opportunity to monitor patients with HE remotely and improves outcomes. Providers offering transitional care management may be reimbursed when establishing contact with patients within 2 days post-discharge and conducting an outpatient visit within 7 days or 14 days. Several approaches have been shown to improve outcomes broadly in patients post-discharge and may also be effective for improving outcomes specifically in patients hospitalized with cirrhosis and HE, thus closing the revolving door on rehospitalizations in this population.
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New Therapies of Liver Diseases: Hepatic Encephalopathy. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10184050. [PMID: 34575157 PMCID: PMC8472037 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10184050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a common complication of advanced liver disease which has profound implications in terms of the patients’ ability to fulfil their family and social roles, to drive and to provide for themselves. Recurrent and persistent HE is still a serious management challenge, translating into a significant burden for patients and their families, health services and society at large. The past few years have been characterized by significantly more attention towards HE and its implications; its definition has been refined and a small number of new drugs/alternative management strategies have become available, while others are underway. In this narrative review we summarize them in a pragmatic and hopefully useful fashion.
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Garg SK, Goyal H, Obaitan I, Shah PA, Sarvepalli S, Jophlin LL, Singh D, Asrani S, Kamath PS, Leise MD. Incidence and predictors of 30-day hospital readmissions for liver cirrhosis: insights from the United States National Readmissions Database. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:1052. [PMID: 34422964 PMCID: PMC8339830 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-1762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background Cirrhosis is associated with substantial inpatient morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to determine the trends in 30-day hospital readmission rates among patients with cirrhosis and identify factors associated with these readmissions. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of data retrieved from the Nationwide Readmissions Database to determine trends in 30-day readmission for patients discharged with a diagnosis of cirrhosis in 2010 through 2014. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of readmission. Results Among 303,346 patients identified from the database, the 30-day readmission rate for patients with a discharge diagnosis of cirrhosis was 31.4% (n=95,298). The trends in the readmission rates remained steady during the study period. On multivariate analysis, female sex, age 45 years or older, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) during admission, and disposition to a short-term care facility or skilled nursing facility protected against readmissions. In contrast, coverage by Medicaid insurance, admission during a weekend, nonalcoholic cause of cirrhosis, and history of hepatic encephalopathy and ascites were associated with readmission. Conclusions We found an exceptionally high 30-day readmission rate in patients with cirrhosis, although it remained stable during the study period. This study identified some modifiable factors such as disposition to a short-term care facility or skilled nursing facility and patients’ attendance of alcohol rehabilitation facilities that could decrease the likelihood of readmission and could inform local and national healthcare policymakers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sushil Kumar Garg
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Hemant Goyal
- Mercer University School of Medicine, Macon, GA, USA
| | - Itegbemie Obaitan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | | | | - Loretta Lynn Jophlin
- Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Dupinder Singh
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Sumeet Asrani
- Baylor University Medical Center, Baylor Scott and White, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Patrick S Kamath
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Michael D Leise
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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Bloom PP, Miller SJ, Nayak RK, Hussain MS, Arvind A, Bay C, Chung RT. Cognitive Tests and Stool Frequency at Hospital Discharge Do Not Predict Outcomes in Hepatic Encephalopathy. South Med J 2020; 113:578-584. [PMID: 33140112 DOI: 10.14423/smj.0000000000001172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is associated with hospital readmissions and mortality. We sought to determine whether cognitive testing and stool frequency at discharge predicted 30-day readmission or death in cirrhotic patients admitted with overt HE. METHODS We approached consecutive inpatients with cirrhosis and overt HE when they were within 48 hours of discharge. Patients underwent cognitive tests, including Psychometric Hepatic Encephalopathy Score (PHES), and stool frequency was documented. Chart review identified Model for End-Stage Liver Disease-sodium (MELD-Na) and the presence of non-HE extrahepatic organ failures. Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate predictors of time to the primary composite outcome of hospital readmission for HE or death within 30 days, censoring for liver transplantation. RESULTS Of 51 patients consented and enrolled, 14 patients met the primary composite outcome. In unadjusted Cox models, 4 variables predicted HE readmission or death: MELD-Na (hazard ratio [HR] 1.10 [1.01-1.20], P = 0.03), respiratory failure (HR 4.26 [1.47-12.35], P = 0.008), total number of HE extrahepatic organ failures (HR 1.79 [1.12-2.88], P = 0.02), and score on a PHES subtest, Number Connection Test A (per 30 seconds; HR 1.25 [1.06-1.47], P = 0.01). PHES and 24-hour stool frequency did not predict the primary outcome. When controlling for MELD-Na, respiratory failure predicted the primary outcome (HR 3.67 [1.24-10.86], P = 0.02). CONCLUSION Cognitive testing and stool frequency at discharge did not predict poor outcomes in patients admitted with HE, while respiratory failure appeared to be a strong predictor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia P Bloom
- From the Liver Center, Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, and the Center for Clinical Investigation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Samuel J Miller
- From the Liver Center, Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, and the Center for Clinical Investigation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Rahul K Nayak
- From the Liver Center, Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, and the Center for Clinical Investigation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Muhammad Sarib Hussain
- From the Liver Center, Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, and the Center for Clinical Investigation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ashwini Arvind
- From the Liver Center, Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, and the Center for Clinical Investigation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Camden Bay
- From the Liver Center, Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, and the Center for Clinical Investigation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Raymond T Chung
- From the Liver Center, Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, and the Center for Clinical Investigation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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14
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KASL clinical practice guidelines for liver cirrhosis: Varices, hepatic encephalopathy, and related complications. Clin Mol Hepatol 2020; 26:83-127. [PMID: 31918536 PMCID: PMC7160350 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2019.0010n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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15
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Amodio P. Hepatic encephalopathy: Diagnosis and management. Liver Int 2018; 38:966-975. [PMID: 29624860 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a peculiar kind of brain dysfunction caused by liver insufficiency and/or portal-systemic shunting. It is related to gut-derived substances. It is a relevant cause of morbidity and hospitalisation for patients with cirrhosis. The prognosis of HE is important in terms of survival and re-hospitalisation. It is related to impaired quality of life, falls and poor driving; presents a relevant burden for caregivers and health services; and may negatively impact on patient's job and income. Proper diagnosis and classification are expected to improve HE management. Once diagnosed, the management and therapeutic options for HE are generally clear. The improvement of knowledge in recent years has also clarified which are the further aims of research in this field of medicine. Prophylaxis of overt HE should always be performed, and this is generally secondary prophylaxis. Primary prophylaxis should be done immediately after upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Great advances in the detection and treatment of mild forms of HE are expected to lead to further improvement in patient management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piero Amodio
- Department of Medicine -DIMED- and CIRMANMEC, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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