Application of Clavien-Dindo Complications Classification in Cardiac Surgery Practice: A Narrative Review

Background: Cardiac surgery is a complex medical specialty known for its potential complications, necessitating accurate evaluation and reporting. Current prediction scales have limitations in capturing the full spectrum of complications experienced by patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The Clavien-Dindo Complications Classification (CDCC) and the Comprehensive Complications Index (CCI) have emerged as promising tools for assessing complications in various surgical specialties, including cardiac surgery. Method: This comprehensive review synthesizes the available literature to assess the application of CDCC and CCI in the context of cardiac surgery. The effectiveness of CDCC and CCI in measuring the nature and clinical impact of complications in this specialized field is explored. Additionally, methods from other medical specialties are reviewed to enhance our understanding of the practical implementation of these classification systems in cardiac surgery. Results: The present study, including significant contributions by Mélanie Hébert et al., highlights the potential of CDCC and CCI to quantify both the number and severity of complications in adult cardiac surgery. Their utility in this specialized field presents opportunities for robust data collection and outcome evaluation. Conclusion: While the application of CDCC and CCI in cardiac surgery shows promise, the notable scarcity of comprehensive evaluation studies has hindered the accessibility of these systems to clinicians. This study provides a clear and accessible reference for healthcare professionals seeking to integrate CDCC and CCI into their cardiac surgery practice. Additionally, we propose the need for guideline studies to address this gap in the field.