Retrospective Study of Anesthesia-Related Complications in Elderly Patients Undergoing Surgery

• Published in: Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences
• Main Authors: Sanjeev Yadav, Abhishek Jahagirdar, Preeti Jamwal, Jagannath Mishra, Gurinder B. S. Thind, Chapala Shashank, Rahul Tiwari
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications 2024-08-01
• Subjects: anesthesia; complications; elderly; retrospective research; surgery
• Online Access: https://journals.lww.com/10.4103/jpbs.jpbs_253_24
• ISSN: 0976-4879; 0975-7406

Background: Anesthesia administration in elderly surgical patients presents unique challenges due to age-related physiological changes and comorbidities. Knowing anesthesia-related complications is crucial for optimizing perioperative care in this vulnerable population. Methods: A retrospective review of electronic medical records was conducted to identify anesthesia-related complications in elderly subjects aged 65 and above undergoing surgery between January 2018 and December 2020. Data collection included demographic characteristics, comorbidities, anesthesia techniques, and postoperative outcomes. Results: There were a total of 100 elderly patients. Cardiovascular events (35%) were the most common complication, followed by respiratory issues (20%) and adverse drug reactions (15%). Statistical analysis revealed significant associations between cardiovascular events, respiratory issues, adverse drug reactions, and anesthesia. Conclusion: Anesthesia-related complications pose significant risks in elderly surgical patients. Tailored anesthesia management strategies, including comprehensive preoperative assessment and vigilant intraoperative monitoring, are essential for mitigating perioperative risks and improving outcomes in this vulnerable population.