MORTALITY PATTERNS IN HEPATOBILIARY AND PANCREATIC SURGERY: GENERAL SURGERY INSIGHTS

Abstract

Abstract
General surgery confronts significant challenges in hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery (HBPS), where morbidity and mortality rates remain notable. Effective pre-operative risk assessment is imperative, particularly with an aging demographic prone to heightened perioperative risks. Analyzing data from 2011 to 2022 specific to HBPS, we aimed to delineate factors predisposing patients to mortality post-surgery. Among 118 patients (aged 18 and above) who succumbed post-HBPS, 87.3% were 50 years or older, with emergency admissions comprising 69.5%. Comorbidities were prevalent in 89.0% of cases, escalating with age. Most patients (83.5%) exhibited an ASA physical status of three or higher, indicating severe systemic illness. Gallbladder and biliary tract surgeries predominated (78.8%), with complications affecting 61.9% of patients. Advanced age and medical comorbidities emerged as primary contributors to post-HBPS mortality, particularly challenging in acute cholecystitis presentations. These findings underscore the critical need for tailored perioperative care strategies within general surgery to mitigate risks in this vulnerable patient population.