Impact of Prophylactic High Flow Nasal Oxygen in Post-Operative Thoracic Surgical Patients

Impact of Prophylactic High Flow Nasal Oxygen in Post-Operative Thoracic Surgical Patients

The Investigators goal was to study the effect of high flow nasal cannula oxygen (HFNC) on the rate of post-operative pulmonary complications in thoracic surgical patients. The Investigators hypothesis is that prophylactic HFNC oxygen, as compared to standard oxygen treatment, will reduce the incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications, improve post-operative pulmonary function, and reduce Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and hospital length of stay.

The Investigators goal was to study the effect of high flow nasal cannula oxygen (HFNC) on the rate of post-operative pulmonary complications in thoracic surgical patients. The Investigators hypothesis is that prophylactic HFNC oxygen, as compared to standard oxygen treatment, will reduce the incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications, improve post-operative pulmonary function, and reduce ICU and hospital length of stay.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Undergoing Thoracic surgery
• Planned admission to ICU after surgery

Exclusion Criteria:

• Younger than 18
• Pregnant
• Breast feeding
• Known diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea
• Current or previous lung transplant
• Pneumonectomy
• Home oxygen greater than 4L/minute
• Inability to adhere to assigned treatment prior to 48 hours of surgery or until transferred to a floor