Background

Abdominal surgery remains one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures worldwide. Despite advancements in surgical techniques, anesthesia, perioperative care, and infection prevention, postoperative complications continue to contribute significantly to patient morbidity, mortality, prolonged hospitalization, and increased healthcare costs. Understanding the incidence and predictors of complications is essential for improving patient outcomes.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the incidence, types, risk factors, and outcomes of postoperative complications following abdominal surgery.

Methods

A retrospective multicenter observational study was conducted involving 5,200 patients who underwent elective and emergency abdominal surgeries between 2018 and 2024. Demographic characteristics, comorbidities, operative details, postoperative complications, length of hospital stay, and mortality outcomes were analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors of complications.

Results

Postoperative complications occurred in 18.4% of patients. The most common complications included surgical site infection (29%), postoperative ileus (18%), pulmonary complications (15%), anastomotic leakage (8%), and sepsis (7%). Advanced age, diabetes mellitus, obesity, emergency surgery, prolonged operative duration, and contaminated surgical wounds were significant independent predictors of postoperative complications.

Conclusion

Postoperative complications following abdominal surgery remain a substantial healthcare challenge. Identification of high-risk patients and implementation of comprehensive perioperative management strategies can significantly improve outcomes and reduce postoperative morbidity.