[Intensive therapy in general surgery]

A good diagnostic protocol as well as a proper preparation to surgery and a careful intensive observation (associated if necessary with an intensive therapy) can lead to a better prognosis in major surgical procedures or routine surgery in poor risk patients. Candidates to ICU are divided in three classes: type A is a stable patient requiring constant monitoring for high probability of complications, type B is still a stable patient who needs an intensive nursing; finally type C is an instable patient who requires a true intensive care. In the surgical department of USL 20/B Figline Valdarno (FI) a postoperative Intensive Care Unit (ICU) has been established in the last three years: a three-bed section with its own staff is located in the surgical department itself. In 37 months 467 operated patients requiring intensive observation or intensive therapy have been admitted.