[Comparative analysis of several invasive methods in treating postoperative sputum retention]

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Critical Care
• Surgical Interventions

Background:

• Postoperative sputum retention is a significant complication impacting respiratory function.
• Effective airway clearance is crucial for preventing secondary pulmonary issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the indications and therapeutic effects of invasive interventions for postoperative sputum retention.
• To evaluate the efficacy of bronchoscopy, cricothyroidotomy, intubation, and tracheotomy.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study of 112 patients with postoperative sputum retention.
• Interventions included bronchoscopy, cricothyroidotomy, intubation, and tracheotomy.
• Clinical data on PaO2, SpO2, and pulmonary atelectasis were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Bronchoscopies were effective in 40% of cases; 31.2% of tracheal intubations were effective.
• Intubations and bronchoscopies had shorter intervention and efficacy durations compared to other methods.
• Some patients required multiple procedures or additional interventions like cricothyroidotomy or tracheotomy.

Conclusions:

• Personalized risk analysis is key for selecting invasive interventions.
• Tracheal intubation and bronchoscopic clearance provide short-term symptomatic relief.
• These methods are recommended as first-choice interventions for postoperative sputum retention.