Specific Postoperative Complications
Not yet clinically reviewed
This protocol was migrated from the earlier Pharmapedia and Ward Guide apps for educational use. Follow your hospital's own policies and consult seniors when in doubt.
Thyroid Surgery
Tracheal compression: Due to hematoma, evacuate hematoma immediately
- Hypoparathyroidism: In total thyroidectomies, supplement with IV calcium gluconate 10% solution followed by oral calcium and vitamin D3
- Thyroid storm: Presents with fever, agitation, confusion
- Coma: Treat with propranolol, sedatives, sodium iodide, carbimazole, steroids, IV fluids.
Hemorrhoidectomy
- Hemorrhage
- Infection
- Secondary hemorrhage
- Stenosis of anus
Tracheostomy
- Mediastinitis
- Surgical emphysema
- Stenosis
- Hemorrhage due to erosion of vessels
Colonic Surgery
Sepsis, ileus, fistulae, anastomotic leak, obstruction, hemorrhage, trauma to ureters.
Gastrectomy
- Gastric stasis due to adhesions: Retrograde jejunogastric intussusception
- Blind loop syndrome: Diarrhea, vomiting, stomatitis, weight loss, hyperperistalsis
- Deficiency of vitamins
- Problems: Duodenal stump leakage, gastrojejunal dehiscence, fistulae, postvagotomy diarrhea, gastric necrosis
- Motility disorders: Biliary dyskinesia; cholelithiasis.
- Long-term problems: Stump carcinoma megaloblastic anemia, intractable diarrhea, bilious vomiting,