Percentage of preoperative variation of arterial oxygen saturation: a new hemogasometric parameter useful in cardiac surgical follow-up

Introduction: Due to its high morbidity, mortality and high costs, cardiovascular surgery still requires biomarkers that provide timely warning of complications and adverse effects.Objective: to evaluate the degree of association of the percentage of pre-postoperative variation in arterial oxygen saturation with the appearance of serious perioperative cardiosurgical complications.Methods: An ambispective cohort study was conducted in patients who underwent major cardiovascular surgery between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2023 at the Cardiocentro in Santiago de Cuba, who met the inclusion criteria.Results: A close link was demonstrated between the appearance of serious perioperative complications and the percentage of pre-postoperative variation in arterial oxygen saturation (p = 0.024, RR 4.141).Conclusions: A significant association was found between the pre-postoperative variation in arterial oxygen saturation and postoperative complications, which makes it plausible to use this novel parameter as another indicator to monitor, diagnose and offer earlier treatment to these patients and reduce morbidity and mortality.