Serum B-type natriuretic peptide levels (BNP) can be used as a predictor of complications in patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery: a prospective observational study.

We found that an increased serum baseline and postoperative BNP is potentially important predictor for the development of postoperative complications. Serum BNP has the potential to emerge as a cost-effective test for risk-stratification for postoperative complications in patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery. It has promising prognostic advantages including modification of surgical procedures, deferral of surgery and the ability to tailor therapy postoperatively.