B-type natriuretic peptide predicts long-term survival after major non-cardiac surgery

Abstract

Background The prediction of long-term survival after surgery is complex. Natriuretic peptides can predict short-term postoperative cardiac morbidity and mortality. This study aims to determine the long-term prognostic significance of preoperative B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) concentration after major non-cardiac surgery. Methods We conducted a prospective single-centre observational cohort study in a West of Scotland teaching hospital. Three hundred and forty-five patients undergoing major non-cardiac surgery were included. The primary endpoint was long-term all-cause mortality. Results Overall survival was 67.8 (234/345), with 27 postoperative deaths (within 42 days) and 84 deaths at subsequent follow-up (median follow-up 953 days). A BNP concentration of >87.5 pg ml-1 best predicted mortality, and the mean survival of patients with an elevated BNP (>87.5 pg ml-1) was 731.9 (95 CI 613.6-850.2) days compared with 1284.6 days [(95 CI 1219.3-1350.0), P<0.001] in patients with a BNP<87.5 pg ml-1. BNP was an independent predictor of survival. Conclusions BNP is an independent predictor of long-term survival after major non-cardiac surgery. A simple preoperative blood test can provide predictive information on future risk of death, and potentially has a role in preoperative risk assessment. © The Author [2011].