Review article

Risk assessment and prevention of perioperative pulmonary complications

Ljilja Štefančić ; Department of Anesthesiology and ICU, University Hospital for tumors, Zagreb, Croatia
Stela Marić ; Department of Anesthesiology and ICU, University Hospital for tumors, Zagreb, Croatia
Gordana Brozović ; Department of Anesthesiology and ICU, University Hospital for tumors, Zagreb, Croatia
Katja Čulav ; Department of Anesthesiology and ICU, University Hospital for tumors, Zagreb, Croatia

Abstract

The incidence rate of pulmonary complications in the immediate postoperative period of non-cardiac surgery equals the incidence rate of cardiovascular complications. Patients undergoing surgery in the upper abdomen or any major abdominal operation are at the greatest risk. Exacerbation of chronic lung disease, respiratory failure, development of atelectasis and pneumonia are the most common and the most significant pulmonary complications in the early postoperative period. Patient’s health status, preoperative preparation and the type of surgery are the factors playing the leading role in the incidence of these complications. Prolonged hospitalization, increased treatment costs and longer recovery are additional significant issues requiring the routine introduction of procedures to reduce the incidence rate of perioperative pulmonary complications.

Keywords

pulmonary complications; perioperative period; abdominal surgery; risk factors

Hrčak ID:

280768

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/280768

Publication date:

22.11.2007.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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