Management of postoperative complications

Several metanalyses indicate that complications in the postoperative care unit remain significant concerns. Nausea and vomiting are common. Identification of susceptible patients and prophylaxis are superior to treatment. Hemodynamic changes cannot always be predicted. New onset cardiac dysrhythmias may indicate myocardial ischemia. Pulmonary complications after major abdominal surgery are reduced if epidural rather than parenteral opioid analgesia is employed. Hypothermia must be recognized and corrected quickly to prevent serious complications including delayed wound healing.