Surgical complications are inherent in gynaecological oncology surgery because of the extensiveness of surgical procedure, alteration in anatomy by the presence of large tumours and also patient related factors. Frequency of surgical complications depend upon the type and mode of surgery, patient profile, availability of resources, disease factors and surgical expertise. Common complications include haemorrhage, visceral injuries, lymphatic and nerve injuries, infection, paralytic ileus and fluid imbalance. A multidisciplinary approach in decision making, extreme vigilance during surgery, judicious patient tailored treatment choices, early recognition and appropriate management of complications are the cornerstones of successful patient outcome.
Benchmarking of complications is essential for comparison and standardization of surgical performance across different centres. Learning and being open about surgical complications is essential and part of good medical practice which also highlights the importance of honest communication to the patient (Duty of Candour). Complication rates do act as a surrogate marker for quality of surgery.
Keywords
- Surgical complications
- Vascular injury
- Ureteric injuries
- Haemorrhage