Prediction of Postoperative Complications after Major Lung Resection: A Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Lung resection is the primary treatment option for many patients with lung cancer; however, it is a high-risk surgery with many potentially lethal perioperative complications. The aim of this review is to examine the capability of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO), maximal oxygen uptake in exercise (VO2max), and maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (PImax and PEmax, respectively) to predict postoperative lung function. Methods: A literature review was performed using PubMed and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Metaanalyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The research included articles after 2000. Experimental studies on animals, studies before 2000, and studies in a language other than English were excluded. Results: A total of 11 studies were included in this review. The main findings were highlighted. In addition, the optimal threshold values of FEV1, DLCO, VO2max, and PImax as well as PEmax were discussed. Conclusions: Preoperative FEV1, DLCO, VO2max, and PImax as well as PEmax have all proven to be independent risk factors for the prediction of postoperative morbidity, mortality, and cardiopulmonary complications after lung resection surgery.