Risk stratification for postoperative pulmonary complications following major cardiothoracic and abdominal surgery – Development of the PPC risk prediction score for physiotherapists clinical decisi

This prospective, observational study was undertaken to establish a pre-operative risk prediction score aimed at guiding clinical decisions regarding chest physiotherapy following elective major cardiothoracic or abdominal surgery. The primary endpoint, defined as post-operative pulmonary complications amendable to chest physiotherapy, was assessed in 339 patients. As part of the study, pulmonary function (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC ratio) was measured by a research physiotherapist using a Vitalograph Micro handheld spirometer.