Detection of sepsis in the postoperative patient

Abstract

It becomes evident, therefore, that there is no one indicator, either clinical or laboratory, sufficient to diagnose infection in the postoperative patient. Only a skillful clinician using the multiple modalities available and combining them with a careful history and physical examination and a high index of suspicion will be able to diagnose and treat infection in a timely manner and so avoid the physical, emotional, and fiscal costs of a late or missed diagnosis.