[Preoperative Spirometry Leads Latent COPD Patients to be Discovered and Treated]

We have noticed the possibility that preoperative spirometry may discover latent COPD patients. When COPD is discovered before operation, we can start to treat COPD promptly. Consequently, the better perioperative care is given to COPD patients. On discharge, patients are referred to their family doctors, so that they can receive COPD treatment.

There activities were started in July 2012. During the initial twelve months, 90 patients of COPD II x III were discovered and treated before admission. FEV1.0 was significantly improved (1.54 l vs. 1.71 l in average) on repeated spirometry on admission. There was no adverse event in COPD treatment All patients have shown good clinical courses.

Latent COPD patients can be discovered by preoperative spirometry.