POST-SURGICAL COMPLICATIONS IN RHEUMATIC DISEASES: EVALUATION OF NEW IMAGING TECHNIQUES

Abstract

Rheumatic diseases often require surgical interventions due to joint damage resulting from chronic inflammation. However, patients face an increased risk of post-surgical complications due to the nature of the disease and the use of immunosuppressive medications. Effective assessment of these complications is essential to improve clinical outcomes and patients' quality of life. In this context, the application of new imaging techniques offers the possibility of earlier and more accurate detection of these complications, contributing to better postoperative management and long-term results. Objective: Critically evaluate scientific literature from the last 10 years to investigate the use of new imaging techniques in the evaluation of post-surgical complications in patients with rheumatic diseases. Methodology: The systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. The PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science databases were searched using the descriptors "post-surgical complications", "rheumatic diseases", "imaging techniques", "evaluation" and "evaluation of new imaging techniques". The inclusion criteria were studies published in the last 10 years, in English, that investigated the use of magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography and contrast-enhanced ultrasound in detecting post-surgical complications in patients with rheumatic diseases. Exclusion criteria were duplicate studies, narrative reviews, and studies that did not specifically focus on post-surgical complications. Results: The results revealed a growing number of studies exploring the use of new imaging techniques in the evaluation of post-surgical complications in rheumatic diseases. Conclusion: The evaluation of new imaging techniques represents a promising approach in detecting and monitoring post-surgical complications in rheumatic diseases. The implementation of these techniques can provide significant benefits in the clinical management of these patients, allowing for early intervention and improving long-term results.