[Postoperative fever]

Abstract

When faced with a case of postoperative fever, the diagnostic procedure is of paramount importance. It's first step is analytical and clinical, basing on examination of the patient and search for indicators of gravity. The first aim of examination is to recognize a septic collection related to surgery and/or intensive therapy. The following step is synthetical and has to consider the type of surgery and the status of the patient. The symptomatic therapy of high fever relies on opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents; their indications and limits are discussed.