IMPACT OF GENERAL ANESTHESIA ON THE OCCURRENCE OF POST-SURGICAL ATELECTASIS: A CLINICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

Postoperative atelectasis is a common and potentially serious respiratory complication that can occur in patients undergoing surgical procedures under general anesthesia. Its pathogenesis is multifaceted and involves a complex interaction of different factors, including changes in pulmonary mechanics, inflammatory response, perioperative hypoxemia, use of anesthetic medications, and characteristics of the surgical procedure. Objective: This study aims to review and discuss the main aspects related to the pathogenesis, prevention, and management of postoperative atelectasis, providing a comprehensive overview of this respiratory complication in patients undergoing surgical procedures under general anesthesia. Methodology: An integrative literature review was conducted, searching for articles published between 2014 and 2023 in the databases of the Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), Virtual Health Library (BVS), and Web of Science. The descriptors used were "atelectasis," "surgery," "general anesthesia," and "postoperative complications." The selected studies were evaluated for methodological quality and subjected to qualitative analysis. Results and Discussion: The pathogenesis of postoperative atelectasis is multifaceted and involves a complex interaction of different factors, including changes in pulmonary mechanics, inflammatory response, perioperative hypoxemia, use of anesthetic medications, and characteristics of the surgical procedure. The prevention of postoperative atelectasis requires a multidisciplinary and proactive approach, involving perioperative monitoring, implementation of alveolar recruitment maneuvers, respiratory physiotherapy, and individualized approach based on patient risk factors and surgical procedure characteristics. Conclusion: Postoperative atelectasis is a common and potentially serious respiratory complication that requires a multidisciplinary and proactive approach for prevention, early detection, and treatment. With a comprehensive understanding of its pathophysiological mechanisms and the implementation of appropriate preventive strategies, it is possible to significantly reduce the impact of postoperative atelectasis on the morbidity and mortality of patients undergoing surgical procedures under general anesthesia.