Table 2

Definition of Post Operative Events

Outcome
Definition

Mortality
Autopsy result.
Arrythmias
Episodes requiring administration of iv anti arrythmics or electric choc. Atrio-ventricular conduction disturbances defined as requiring temporary or definitive pace maker.
Reoperation
Reoperation or recatheterisation for myocardial ischemia.
Myocardial Infarction
New Q wave or increase in CK-MB > 5xULN.or troponin T > or = 1 ng/ml.
CK-MB and troponin T
Mean values at 6, 12 and 24 hours post operatively.
Cardiac Faillure
Cardiac resuscitation manoeuvres or intra aortic balloon pump. Level of inotropic support.
Neurologic Events
Coma (Glasgow score), stroke (focal neurologic deficit > 24 hours), transient ischemic attack (focal neurologic deficit < 24 hours), delirium.
Respiratory Complications
ARDS, ventilation > 24 hours, pneumonia, thoracic effusion or pneumothorax requiring drainage and PaO2 at discharge from ICU.
Renal Complications
Renal dialysis, ultra filtration, need for continuous iv diuretics, serum creatinin increase between base line and ICU discharge.
Bleeding Complications
Reoperation for bleeding, blood products administration, total blood drainage.
Infectious Complications
Sternal infection (deep and superficial); septicaemia.
Gastro Intestinal Complications
Cholecystitis, Pancreatitis, Mesenteric Ischaemia, GI perforation, GI bleeding, Intestinal Occlusion.
Ressource utilisation
Readmision to ICU; ICU and hospital length of stay.

Uva et al. Trials 2008 9:44   doi:10.1186/1745-6215-9-44