Pneumonectomy for non-small cell lung cancer: predictors of early mortality and morbidity.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to determine independent risk factors affecting postoperative morbidity and mortality after pneumonectomy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). METHODS: A review of 329 patients having pneumonectomy for NSCLC between January 1, 1998 and July 31,2012 was undertaken. Factors affecting morbidity and mortality were analyzed by univariate and multivariate analyses. RESULTS: The overall 30-day mortality rate was 5.1%. Smoking habits, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) status, neoadjuvant therapy and obesity had no statistical influence on the short-term outcome. Coronary artery disease and respiratory failure were identified as risk factors for increased 30-day mortality (p < 0.01). Right pneumonectomy and presence of respiratory failure with mechanical ventilation increased the incidence of bronchopleural fistula (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Pneumonectomy for NSCLC carries an acceptable operative morbidity and mortality. Coronary artery disease, right pneumonectomy and respiratory failure adversely affect morbidity and mortality after this procedure.