postoperative complications (general, immediate)

Last reviewed 01/2018

  • primary haemorrhage - starting during surgery, replace blood loss and if necessary return to theatre.

  • reactive haemorrhage - bleed following an increase in blood pressure postoperatively. Replace blood loss and re-explore wound.

  • basal atelectasis - minor lung collapse.

  • shock - may be caused by blood loss, MI, pulmonary embolism or septicaemia.

  • low urine output