[Complications of gynaecological operations. A one-year analysis of a hospital database].
BACKGROUND
Complications often arise in the course of gynaecological surgery. Knowledge of the possible surgical outcomes may prevent complications and change expectations. The available valid data in this field are sparse.


METHODS
A simple, valid database was established. Overall diagnosis, type of operation and eventual complications were registered. Potential perioperative complications were blood loss of more than 1,000 ml and/or perforation of the uterus, intestines or bladder. Potential postoperative complications were attributed to surgical outcomes characterized by unexpected use of antibiotics, uterine evacuation, laparoscopy, laparotomy, catherization, drainage and/or blood transfusion.


RESULTS
From 1 September 1999 to 31 August 2000, 1,133 women were admitted a total of 1,242 times. Thirty surgeons performed 970 operations on 917 women. The complication rate was 2.2% (0-10.2%) perioperatively and 9.0% (0-20.0%) postoperatively.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of a simple, valid database demonstrated a high rate of complications. However, most of the complications were minor.
Møller
Lars M Alling
LM
Amtssygehuset i Glostrup Gynaekologisk-obstetrisk Afdeling. larsam@dadlnet.dk
D002983:Clinical Competence; D016208:Databases, Factual; D003718:Denmark / Q000453:epidemiology; D005260:Female; D013509:Gynecologic Surgical Procedures / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000592:standards / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D007431:Intraoperative Complications / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology; D016896:Treatment Outcome