Peak Expiratory Flow Variability after Abdominal Surgery: A Prospective Observational Study in Peru

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine
• Respiratory Physiology
• Surgical Outcomes Research

Background:

• Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF) is a key indicator of airway patency and cough effectiveness.
• Limited perioperative data exists for Latin American surgical populations regarding PEF.
• Abdominal surgery's impact on postoperative PEF requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify postoperative PEF variability after abdominal surgery.
• To identify factors associated with PEF changes in the postoperative period.
• To assess the clinical utility of PEF monitoring in Peruvian surgical patients.

Main Methods:

• Prospective observational study conducted in a Peruvian hospital in 2024.
• PEF measured preoperatively and on postoperative day 7 using a Mini-Wright meter.
• Statistical analysis included non-parametric tests and multivariable linear regression.

Main Results:

• Eighty-two adult patients undergoing elective abdominal surgery were included.
• A median PEF variability of 20 L/min was observed postoperatively.
• Older age was identified as the sole independent predictor of increased PEF decline.

Conclusions:

• Abdominal surgery leads to an early postoperative reduction in expiratory flow.
• Older adults are particularly susceptible to this decline in PEF.
• Perioperative PEF assessment can aid in identifying at-risk patients for enhanced respiratory support, especially in resource-limited settings.