Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2007; 55(6): 391-394
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-965326
Original Thoracic

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Role of Diffusing Capacity in Predicting Complications after Lung Resection for Cancer

M. Santini1 , A. Fiorello1 , G. Vicidomini1 , V. G. Di Crescenzo1 , P. Laperuta1
  • 1Department of Thoracic Surgery Unit, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
Further Information

Publication History

received Dec 14, 2006

Publication Date:
24 August 2007 (online)

Abstract

Background: The purpose of our study was to determine whether the assessment of the diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO), together with the forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), could improve the selection of surgical patients. Methods: The data of 76 patients undergoing major lung resection (pnemonectomy, bilobectomy or lobectomy) for non-small cell lung cancer were retrospectively studied. All patients were reviewed for age, sex, preexisting medical conditions, operative, and pathological findings and postoperative outcome. Results: Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that ppoFEV1 and ppoDLCO were the only statistically significant predictors of pulmonary complications. In the group of patients with marginal ppoFEV1 (between 30 - 40 %), ppoDLCO predicted pulmonary morbidity with a better accuracy (p < 0.005) than ppoFEV1 (p > 0.05). Multiple regression analysis showed that pneumonectomy was the only statistical factor correlated with mortality (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Our experience seems to suggest that ppoDLCO is a strong predictor of pulmonary complications after major lung resection, allowing a better surgical selection of the patients with compromised respiratory function.

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Prof. Mario Santini

Chirurgia Toracica
Seconda Università di Napoli

Piazza Miraglia 2

80138 Naples

Italy

Phone: + 39 08 15 66 52 26

Fax: + 39 08 15 66 52 30

Email: mario.santini@unina2.it

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