Factors associated with complications in gynecological surgeries.

Objective: To evaluate the factors associated with complications in major gynecological surgeries.

Methods: A retrospective study on major gynecological surgeries performed at King Khalid University Hospital, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from the year 1997-2001. A total of 555 cases were included. Risk factors associated with complications were evaluated by a unique regression analysis.

Results: High blood loss was associated with salpingectomy/salpingotomy, myomectomy, and total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH). Old age was associated with TAH, oophorectomy and vaginal hysterectomy. Prolonged hospitalization was associated with TAH and oophorectomy. Urinary tract infection, wound infection, nausea and vomiting were not significant postoperative complications in major gynecological surgeries.

Conclusion: The recognition of the specific complications associated with each type of surgery are important for counseling the patients and preoperative preparation to reduce the risk of long term morbidity.