Postoperative sepsis

SummaryPostoperative sepsis remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. The complex dysregulated host response to infection includes uncontrolled inflammation and immune suppression. Although preoperative predictive factors are well recognised, early recognition of postoperative sepsis remains problematic. Specific diagnostic markers are not routinely available. Treatment of severe sepsis has been rationalised under the auspices of the Surviving Sepsis Campaign. The postoperative patient presents additional therapeutic challenges which are discussed in this article