Objectives: To evaluate the incidence and magnitude of perioperative N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and high-sensitivity troponin I (Tn I) elevation in patients undergoing pulmonary resection and its predictive value for cardiovascular complications. Methodology: Prospective, multicenter, observational cohort study in patients >45 years undergoing elective thoracic surgery for lung resection. Cardiac biomarkers Tn I and NT-proBNP will be measured preoperatively and at postoperative days 1 and 2. Risk score for major cardiovascular postoperative complications will be calculated depending of both biomarkers perioperative changes.
After lung resection, troponin elevation may be regulated by mechanisms other than myocardial ischemia. Perioperative natriuretic peptides measurement may help identify changes in ventricular function during thoracic surgery. Integrating both cardiac biomarkers may improve the predictive value for cardiovascular complications after lung resection.