ASSOCIATION OF METABOLIC SYNDROME WITH PERIOPERATIVE COMPLICATIONS ACROSS MAJOR SURGICAL PROCEDURES

Abstract

Background:
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of metabolic abnormalities including central obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. Patients with MetS undergoing major surgical procedures are at increased risk of perioperative complications due to impaired metabolic and cardiovascular homeostasis. Understanding this association is essential for improving perioperative care and patient outcomes.

Objectives:
To determine the association of metabolic syndrome with perioperative complications across major surgical procedures.

Study Design & Setting:

This observational analytical study was conducted at Sheikh Zayed Hospital Lahore Jan 2025 to June 2025 including patients scheduled for major surgery under general or regional anesthesia.

Methodology:
A total of 120 patients aged 18 years and above were consecutively recruited. MetS was diagnosed using NCEP-ATP III criteria. Demographic data, comorbidities, type of surgery, and perioperative complications—including cardiovascular events, pulmonary complications, surgical site infections, thromboembolic events, and delayed wound healing—were recorded up to 30 days postoperatively. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0, with chi-square and t-tests applied to assess associations.

Results:
MetS was present in 45.8% of patients. Cardiovascular complications were significantly higher in patients with MetS (21.8% vs 4.6%; p=0.004). Pulmonary complications (18.2% vs 15.4%), surgical site infections (16.4% vs 13.8%), thromboembolic events (10.9% vs 6.2%), and delayed wound healing (14.5% vs 6.2%) were more frequent in the MetS group, although not statistically significant. Overall, 63.6% of patients with MetS experienced at least one perioperative complication compared to 46.2% without MetS.

Conclusion:
Metabolic syndrome is associated with an increased risk of perioperative complications, particularly cardiovascular events, in patients undergoing major surgery. Early identification and optimized perioperative management are recommended.