What are the clinical and financial benefits of using same-day discharge with patients undergoing catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation is the most common dysrhythmia and has significantly impacted healthcare staff and systems. Catheter ablations remain the most effective tool in the treatment of
atrial fibrillation, and yet these have often contributed to hospital admissions and costs. Sameday discharges are a safe and cost-saving method being used more in this patient population. This study was completed to evaluate and compare same-day discharge versus admission following catheter ablation.

In the study, there were 321 patients who underwent catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation over 12 months from July 2021 to July 2022. Of these 321 patients, there were 74 same-day discharges. 30-day readmission rates for both samples were similar, with 4 (4%) patients readmitted following same-day release and 3 (2%) patients readmitted following observation or inpatient admission. 90-day readmission rates for both samples were also similar at 2.7% for same-day discharges and 1.2% for observation/inpatient admissions. There was a cost savings of at least $37,000 using same-day discharge versus at least $123,000 in costs for admission for observation or inpatient. Based on this study, the use of same-day discharge in catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation is reaffirmed as safe and cost-effective and should be considered in routine practice.