Anesthesiology
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Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a devastating condition with an estimated mortality exceeding 30%. There are data suggesting risk factors for ARDS development in high-risk populations, but few data are available in lower incidence populations. Using risk-matched analysis and a combination of clinical and research data sets, we determined the incidence and risk factors for the development of ARDS in this general surgical population. ⋯ ARDS is a rare condition postoperatively in the general surgical population and is exceptionally uncommon in low American Society of Anesthesiologists status patients undergoing scheduled surgery. Analysis after matching suggests that ARDS development is associated with median drive pressure, fraction inspired oxygen, crystalloid volume, and transfusion.