Background

Abdominal surgery remains one of the most frequently performed surgical interventions worldwide. Despite advances in surgical techniques, anesthesia, and perioperative care, postoperative complications continue to contribute significantly to patient morbidity, mortality, prolonged hospitalization, and increased healthcare costs.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the incidence, risk factors, clinical outcomes, and prevention strategies associated with postoperative complications following abdominal surgery.

Methods

A prospective multicenter observational study was conducted among 2,500 patients undergoing elective and emergency abdominal surgeries across six tertiary-care hospitals. Clinical records, perioperative data, and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify predictors of postoperative complications.

Results

Overall postoperative complications occurred in 21.6% of patients. Surgical site infections, pulmonary complications, postoperative ileus, anastomotic leakage, and thromboembolic events were the most common complications. Advanced age, diabetes mellitus, obesity, smoking, emergency surgery, and prolonged operative duration were independently associated with increased complication risk. Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols reduced complication rates by 32%.

Conclusion

Postoperative complications remain a major challenge following abdominal surgery. Comprehensive perioperative optimization, risk stratification, infection prevention, and implementation of ERAS protocols are critical for improving surgical outcomes and reducing healthcare burden.