Table 2 Clavien-Dindo classification of surgical complications [19]

Grade I

Any deviation from the normal postoperative course without the need for pharmacological treatment or surgical, endoscopic and radiological intervention. Acceptable therapeutic regimens are drugs such as antiemetics, analgesia, diuretics and electrolytes and physiotherapy. This grade also includes wound infections opened at the bedside.

Grade II

Requiring pharmacological treatment with drugs other than those allowed for grade I complications. Blood transfusions and total parenteral nutrition are also included.

Grade III

Requiring surgical, endoscopic or radiological intervention.

 Grade III-a

Intervention NOT under general anaesthesia

 Grade III-b

Intervention under general anaesthesia

Grade IV

Life-threatening complication requiring HDU/ICU management

 Grade IV-a

Single organ dysfunction (including dialysis)

 Grade IV-b

Multi-organ dysfunction

Grade V

Death