Multivariate Analysis of Factors Associated With Postoperative Pulmonary Complications Following General Elective Surgery

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Abstract
PULMONARY complications following surgery are associated with significant morbidity1-4 and have been shown to increase the length of hospitalization.1,5,6 The identification of patient-related features associated with increased risk for postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) has been reported; however, the results have been conflicting.1-20 Surgical features that increase risk include the performance of emergent procedures; longer anesthesia duration; and the surgical incision site, with thoracic and upper abdominal incisions having the highest rate of PPCs.2,11,15,19 Efforts have been focused on the minimization of postoperative risk factors, such as prolonged bed rest21 and inadequate pain control,22 and on the routine use of incentive spirometry.23 The identification and correction of modifiable perioperative risk factors in patients undergoing elective surgery should lead to further improvement in outcomes and reductions in lengths of hospital stay.