Impact of COVID-19 History on Hospital Stay Duration and Postoperative Complication Rates in Patients Undergoing VATS Lobectomy for Stage I and II Lung Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Objectives: This study investigates how a prior COVID-19 history influences hospital stay durations and postoperative complication rates among patients undergoing VATS lobectomy for stage I and II lung cancer between 2020 and 2024. Material and Method: A retrospective cohort study was conducted, including 145 patients who underwent VATS lobectomy at Şişli Etfal Hospital. Patients were divided into two groups: those with a history of COVID-19 (n=59) and those without (n=86). Data on demographics, clinical characteristics, hospital stay duration, and postoperative complications were collected and analyzed. Additionally, perioperative blood loss and the duration of chest tube placement were recorded for each patient. Patients who required more than 300 mL of drainage within the first 24 hours were carefully monitored, and further interventions were noted if necessary. Results: Additionally, the postoperative complication rate was higher in the COVID-19 group (36.5%) compared to the non-COVID-19 group (22.1%) (P < 0.05). Common complications included pneumonia, fever, and wound infection. Patients with a history of COVID-19 experienced a notably longer mean hospital stay (8.5 ± 3.7 days) compared to those without (5.2 ± 2.8 days).The perioperative blood loss was higher in patients with a history of COVID-19, with an average of 150 mL compared to 100 mL in the control group. Additionally, the chest tube duration was significantly prolonged in the COVID-19 group (6.2 ± 1.5 days) compared to the non-COVID-19 group (4.3 ± 1.2 days). Conclusion: These findings highlight the need for careful perioperative management and monitoring in this patient population. Patients with a prior history of COVID-19 undergoing VATS lobectomy exhibit prolonged hospital stays and increased postoperative complication rates.