Biochemical Indicators of In-Hospital Complications Following Pancreatic Surgery

Early recognition of complications following pancreatic surgery could reduce morbidity and mortality. White cell counts (WCCs), platelets (PLTs), C-reactive protein (CRP) and albumin (ALB) are commonly used as guides in clinical decision making. However, the evidence to support their role as early indicators of complications is unclear. A retrospective cohort analysis of consecutive pancreatic surgical procedures between 2004 and 2008 was performed. Operative procedures, inflammatory markers-WCCs, PLTs, CRP, and ALB-preoperatively and on postoperative days (PODs) 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12, and 15, and clinical outcomes were recorded. WCC > 11 X 10(9)/L on POD5 was significantly associated with complications [odds ratio (OR), 2.60; P = 0.0067]. ALB 12.2 X 10(9)/L and ALB