Unplanned Reintubation Following Cardiac Surgery: Incidence, Timing, Risk Factors, and Outcomes

Patients reintubated after cardiac surgery had significantly higher mortality, complication rates, and length of stay. Novel risk factors identified could be used to tailor extubation timing and strategy appropriately. Compared to noncardiac surgery, some risk factors for reintubation differed and risk continued beyond the immediate postoperative period to a greater degree.