Risk factors and postoperative complications in oncologic surgeries

Abstract Introduction: Oncological patients who are submitted to surgical procedures might have postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs). Thus, preoperative physical conditions must be considered, since it is an important predictor of postoperative development. Objective: The purpose of this study was to analyze the risk factors for postoperative pulmonary complications that might compromise the recovery after oncologic surgery. Method: The present observational transversal study was made between March and October of 2015. Patients diagnosed with cancer were analyzed to determine pulmonary and functional condition and to identify the risk factors for the development of PPCs. The post-surgery recovery was followed through medical records. Data collected from patients’ analyses was correlated with post-surgery development. Results: Thirty patients were analyzed. A negative and moderate correlation was found between maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) and PPCs (r=-0.39; p=0.032). A positive correlation between the time of permanence in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and hospitalization days (r=0.40; p=0.02) was observed. Correlations between PPCs and mechanical ventilation (r=0.36; p=0.04) and hospitalization days (r=0.40; p=0.02) were also noticed in the present study. Conclusion: PPCs might prejudice post-surgery outcome. The greater are physical condition and pulmonary functions of the patients before surgery, the better is their recovery.