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.