Clinical and laboratory features of patients with postoperative pneumonia after cardiac surgery

Background: Following cardiothoracic surgery, postoperative pneumonia (POP) represents a major clinical sequela. This study compared clinical and diagnostic features among the patients who developed POP and those with an uncomplicated recovery. Methods: In a retrospective single-centre analysis, 95 patients who had open-heart surgery were divided into group 1 (POP, n=53) and group 2 (no major complications, n=42). We analysed demographics, comorbidities, laboratory results, and echocardiographic data. Results: While baseline characteristics were similar, group 1 had a significantly higher prevalence of anaemia (98% versus 70%, p<0.001) and postoperative pneumothorax (17% versus 2%, p=0.020). Laboratory findings showed markedly elevated inflammatory biomarkers, including C-reactive protein and procalcitonin (p<0.001), in group 1. Echocardiography revealed a lower left ventricular ejection fraction (57.3% versus 62.8%, p=0.037) and more frequent pericardial effusion (p=0.026) in these patients. Conclusions: POP is associated with a distinct profile featuring significant anaemia, elevated specific infection biomarkers, slightly impaired left ventricular function, and increased pulmonary complications. The study thus underscores potential focuses for improving both patient assessment before surgery and diagnosis after the procedure.