Oxygen delivery as a factor in the development of fatal postoperative complications after oesophagectomy

Background This study was designed to assess the impact of oxygen transport variables on outcome in 115 patients undergoing elective surgery for oesophageal carcinoma. Methods Haemodynamic parameters were determined using a Swan-Ganz catheter in all patients on the day before operation, 6 h after operation, and daily for the first 4 days after operation, Results Oxygen delivery and consumption at 6 h were significantly higher in survivors than in nonsurvivors. However, oxygen delivery and consumption in both groups did not differ significantly after postoperative day 1. Of 17 patients with oxygen delivery levels lower than 445 mi min(-1) m(-2) at 6 hi eight died in hospital. Oxygen delivery in patients who developed either an anastomotic leak or severe pneumonia was significantly lower 6 h after surgery. Lower levels of oxygen delivery preceded postoperative complications. Conclusion Oxygen delivery 6 h after oesophagectomy correlates with postoperative complications and may be a determinant of hospital mortality.