Criteria to determine readiness for discharge after pulmonary surgery after pulmonary surgery

Imran Jamal Iversen, Finn Amundsen Dittberner, Anni Germann Najbjerg, Marie Øbo Larsen & Bo Laksáfoss Holbek  |  November 5, 2025

This national Delphi study established expert consensus on readiness-for-discharge criteria after pulmonary surgery in Denmark. Thoracic surgeons agreed on 23 endpoints spanning key recovery domains, including clear criteria for chest drain removal. Standardizing chest drain–related endpoints alongside respiratory function, pain control, and mobilization helps distinguish clinical readiness for discharge from actual discharge timing and supports enhanced recovery pathways and consistent postoperative decision‑making.

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