Commentary Open access

Postoperative respiratory depression and pulmonary complications: serious but underappreciated

Authors

Published
17 April 2026
Section
Commentary

Abstract

Postoperative pulmonary complications represent one of the most consequential but underappreciated sources of peri- and post-operative morbidity and mortality. Among these, postoperative respiratory depression, characterized by inadequate ventilatory drive, hypoxemia, and hypercapnia following anesthesia and surgery, has emerged as a subtle, but serious threat to patient safety.

Data Availability Statement

The review does not include any data.

References

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Author Biography

  • Robert B. Raffa, Enalare Therapeutics, Mullica Hill, NJ

    Temple University (Emeritus), Philadelphia, PA, USA

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