Imaging Early Postoperative Complications of Cardiothoracic Surgery

Imaging plays a central role in the evaluation of patients following cardiothoracic surgery, both for monitoring in the early postoperative period and for assessing for suspected complications. Patients with postsurgical complications can develop a range of signs and symptoms, from hypotension and tachycardia, as the result of severe bleeding, to fever and leukocytosis because of infection. The radiologist is an important member of the care team in the postoperative period, helping identify and manage complications of cardiothoracic surgery. This article reviews the common complications of cardiothoracic surgery focusing on the role of imaging and clues to diagnosis.