Evaluation of Postoperative Complications in Elderly Patients Undergoing Plastic Surgery According to the Modifed Clavien-Dindo Classification

Abstract

Although age is not encountered as a contraindication for surgery, performing the surgical procedures in shortest time possible is essential in order to avoid complications and facilitate management of the coexisting comorbidities. The aim of this study is to determine the complication rates and to evaluate the risk factors according to the modified Clavien Dindo classification in elderly patients over 80 years of age who received plastic and reconstructive surgery. Material and Method: 184 patients over 80 years of age who were treated in the Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Clinic between January 2015 and December 2018 were included in the study. The diseases were examined in five different groups consisting of acute or chronic wound (pressuresores, diabetic wounds, vascular trauma, trauma, etc.), malignant skin tumors, benign skin tumors, craniomaxillofacial trauma and others (hand trauma, temporamandibular joint dysfunction,etc.). Results: When the complications were evaluated, it was observed that a total of 50 patients had medical or surgical complications. According to the Dindo Clavien classification, the most common complication was vascular compromise of flaps or wounds tha tnecessitated debridement application under local anesthesia in 17 patients with stage IIIA. The total complication rate was 27.1%. Conclusion: Age is not a contraindication for the elderly in cases when plastic surgery procedures should be performed. Evaluating comorbidities and the preoperative medical conditions delicately, choosing the appropriate anesthesia method and performing the shortest possible surgical procedure with the aim of shorten the duration of surgery is essential in order to reduce and prevent postoperative complications in elderly patients.