Postoperative care and pain relief in vascular surgery

Postoperative care of the vascular patient is the same as that for any major surgical patient. The aims are to provide adequate arterial oxygenation and ensure adequate respiratory function, a normal cardiac output, an adequate circulating volume at an appropriate haematocrit, a good urine output and good analgesia. The high incidence of comorbidities in this group of patients and the widespread nature of atheromatous disease predisposes to frequent complications. These complications and their management are described in general and with particular reference to specific vascular procedures. Vigilant monitoring and attention to detail in the postoperative management of these patients is essential for successful outcome.