Biochemical Analysis of Oxidative Stress in Post-Surgical Patients: Evaluating the Role of Oxidative Stress Markers in Monitoring Recovery and Complications

Objective: To investigate the role of oxidative stress markers in monitoring recovery and predicting complications in post-surgical patients.

Methods: This prospective observational study included 150 post-surgical patients from a tertiary care hospital. Blood samples were collected at baseline, 24 hours, and 7 days post-surgery. Oxidative stress markers—malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC)—were measured using established biochemical assays. Recovery was assessed based on length of hospital stay, return to baseline function, and incidence of post-surgical complications. Correlations and logistic regression analyses were conducted to evaluate associations between oxidative stress markers and recovery outcomes.

Results: MDA levels significantly increased, and GSH levels significantly decreased 24 hours post-surgery compared to baseline. Elevated MDA and decreased GSH were associated with longer hospital stays, delayed return to baseline function, and higher incidence of complications. Logistic regression analysis indicated that higher MDA and lower GSH levels were significant predictors of post-surgical complications.

Conclusions: Oxidative stress markers, specifically MDA and GSH, are valuable in assessing post-surgical recovery and predicting complications. Monitoring these markers can provide insights into recovery trajectories and guide interventions to improve surgical outcomes.