Postoperative hypoxaemia--its causes and prevention.

Postoperative hypoxaemia presents with varying degrees of severity. Aetiology of the condition is diverse and may originate in the pre-, intra- or postoperative periods. However, induction of anaesthesia and the type of operation are important initiating factors over which there is little control. The impact of postoperative hypoxaemia, especially when detected early, can be alleviated. This article attempts to explain the pathophysiology and provide suggestions as to detection and management of postoperative hypoxaemia.