POSSUM and P-POSSUM for risk-adjusted audit of patients undergoing emergency laparotomy

Abstract

If analysed correctly POSSUM is a good predictor of morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing emergency laparotomy. P-POSSUM predicts mortality equally well. Both equations may be used for risk-adjusted surgical audit of patients undergoing emergency laparotomy.

Effect of surgical work volume on postoperative complication: superiority of specialized center in gastric cancer treatment

“…The POSSUM system allows a numerical prediction of mortality and morbidity for an individual patient, and it enables comparative audits with a method for adjustment of case mix. Comparison can be made over time and can be easily adjusted to radical changes in health care in the future [1,6,7]. In addition, POSSUM has definitions for postoperative complications, which can be used as standard terms while comparing several surgical units.…”

A prospective study of risk stratification in patients undergoing emergency laparotomy with POSSUM and P-POSSUM

“…[10][11][12][13] Emergency laparotomy is one of the most commonly performed major surgical procedures in emergency. It becomes imperative to assess the risk of morbidity and mortality in each of such patient undergoing emergency laparotomy as often these patients are brought to the hospital in morbid conditions.…”

“…Predicted morbidity and mortality rates were calculated by POSSUM and P-POSSUM equations using both linear regression and the exponential methods of analysis. 13 These were then compared with actual outcomes. When the linear method of analysis was used POSSUM over predicted morbidity, and there was a significant difference between the observed and predicted values (O: E ratio 0.68).…”

“…Both equations may be used for risk-adjusted surgical audit of patients undergoing emergency laparotomy. 13 Kumar P et al conducted a study involving eighty-two patients who underwent emergency laparotomy.…”

Evaluation of POSSUM scoring system in patients with perforation peritonitis

“…22 Hence, there is a need to validate POSSUM in Indian scenario where problems like delayed presentation and limited resources can affect the outcome even with adequate quality care. [23][24][25] In this study, the validity of POSSUM scoring system in 50 patients undergoing emergency laparotomy for perforation peritonitis in a single surgical unit was assessed by comparing the observed and expected mortality and morbidity rates. 9 patients died; a crude mortality rate of 18%.…”