Anticipating the likely complications and avoidance will minimise the occurance of these complications. The important principles to appreciate are:

The anatomical principles that underpin complications

The physiological and biochemical derangements that occur

The most appropriate diagnostic modalities to utilise

The principles which underpin their management

Key points:

• World Health Organisation checklist- now mandatory prior to all operations
• Prophylactic antibiotics - right dose, right drug, right time.
• Assess DVT/ PE risk and ensure adequate prophylaxis
• MARK site of surgery
• Use tourniquets with caution and with respect for underlying structures
• Remember the danger of end arteries and in situations where they occur avoid using adrenaline containing solutions and monopolar diathermy.
• Handle tissues with care- devitalised tissue serves as a nidus for infection
• Be very wary of the potential for coupling injuries when using diathermy during laparoscopic surgery
• The inferior epigastric artery is a favorite target for laparoscopic ports and surgical drains!