Predictive Value of Preoperative Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio on Postoperative Complications in Valve Surgery Patients

Aim: It aims to retrospectively evaluate the relationship between preoperative neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) values and the incidence of postoperative complications in patients undergoing heart valve replacement. Material and Methods: This retrospective cohort study examined the data of 412 adult patients undergoing elective aortic and/or mitral valve replacement. NLR was calculated from blood samples 24 hours before surgery. Patients were divided into two groups based on NLR values: Group 1: NLR < 3.0 and Group 2: NLR ≥ 3.0. Results: According to preoperative NLR values, 268 patients (65%) were in Group 1 and 144 patients (35%) were in Group 2. Significantly higher rates of postoperative atrial fibrillation (PoAF), renal dysfunction, prolonged mechanical ventilation, and infectious complications were observed in Group 2 compared to Group 1. Conclusion: It demonstrates that preoperative NLR may be a simple and effective tool for risk stratification in patients undergoing valve surgery.