Postoperative Aspiration Pneumonia Among Adults Using GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have been increasingly prescribed for weight management in recent years. However, little is known about whether preoperative GLP-1 RA use is associated with a greater risk of complications after surgery.

To investigate whether preoperative GLP-1 RA use is associated with postoperative aspiration pneumonia among patients undergoing common surgical procedures. Design, Setting, and Participants: This retrospective cohort study, conducted using MarketScan commercial claims databases, included patients who underwent 1 of 14 common surgical procedures from April 1, 2020, to September 30, 2022. Individuals who were younger than 18 years, underwent multiple surgical procedures, or had a preoperative history of pneumonia or acute respiratory failure in the 90 days preceding surgery were excluded. Data were analyzed from December 2023 to March 2024. Main Outcome and Measures: The primary outcome was aspiration pneumonia in the 30-day postoperative period. Multivariable logistic regressions were performed, adjusting for patient and surgical characteristics.