Physiologic Effects of CPAP After Vascular Surgery

Physiologic Effects of CPAP After Vascular Surgery

This study aims to investigate, with a case-crossover design, the effects of a short course of preventive CPAP administered in the immediate postoperative period in patients at high-risk of developing postoperative pulmonary complications undergoing major vascular surgery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Open or endovascular surgery on the abdominal aorta
• Surgical procedure requiring general anaesthesia and invasive intraoperative mechanical ventilation
• Intermediate-high risk of postoperative pulmonary complications (ARISCAT score ≥ 26)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Prolonged post-operative invasive ventilation
• Invasive or non-invasive ventilation or oxygen therapy in the last month
• ASA class IV or V
• Emergency procedures
• Pneumothorax or active pulmonary infection
• Any contraindication to CPAP
• Prolonged bed rest
• Patient refusal to participate or to receive preventive CPAP