Surgical Complications and Their Repercussions

Abstract Purpose: Surgical complications have a significant impact on intended quality of care. The aim of our study was to identify factors that contribute to the propagation of additional postoperative complications. Materials and Methods: Over a 1-year period, we prospectively identified and retrospectively reviewed data on all patients who experienced a surgical complication within 30 days of their procedure. A complication was defined as any deviation from the expected postoperative course and was described using the Clavien–Dindo classification. Data reviewed included length of stay (LOS), Clavien grade, readmission status, and management of the complication. Surgeries were stratified into retroperitoneal, pelvic, and endoscopic procedures. The association between complications and Clavien grade was measured using Spearman rank-order correlation. The probability of subsequent complications and readmission was measured using exact logistic regression. Results: Of the 4414 patients who underwent a uro...