PREOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC-BRONCHITIS

Patients with chronic bronchitis for whom major elective surgery is in dicated are at increased risk for perioperative respiratory complicati ons. The principal clinical features of chronic bronchitis, including excessive mucus Secretion, productive cough, and respiratory infection , are related to a persistent inflammatory insult. The insult provokes mucus hypersecretion, obstruction to airflow, and paralysis of airway defense mechanisms. A comprehensive preoperative medical regimen that reduces inflammation, clears and reduces mucus secretions, treats und erlying infection, ameliorates inflammation, and increases airway cali ber ensures the best surgical outcome.