What is a common cardiovascular complication that may arise postoperatively?

Myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, is a significant cardiovascular complication that can arise postoperatively, particularly in patients with preexisting cardiovascular disease or risk factors such as advanced age, obesity, diabetes, or a history of smoking. The surgical stress response can lead to increased myocardial oxygen demand, fluctuations in heart rate and blood pressure, and activation of the coagulation cascade, all of which may precipitate an event like a myocardial infarction in susceptible individuals.

Monitoring cardiac function and managing risk factors before and after surgery is crucial in preventing this severe complication. While other options such as stroke, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism are also important and can occur postoperatively, myocardial infarction is directly related to the heart and vascular system's response to surgical stress, making it a common cardiovascular complication in the context of surgical patients.