Im Y, et al. - Among patients who underwent curative resection for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (stage IA-IIB) and had normal spirometry results (n=488, older than 70 years), researchers focused on the prevalence of and risk factors for postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs). They reported the development of PPCs in 52 patients (10.7%). The reported prevalence of severe PPCs, such as acute respiratory distress syndrome, pneumonia, and respiratory failure were 3.7, 3.7, and 1.4%, respectively. Patients with PPCs had significantly higher short-term all-cause mortality. In healthy elderly patients, it seemed feasible to perform curative resection for NSCLC, with 10% PPCs. Identified predictors of PPC development were American Society of Anesthesiologists classification ≥3, lower body mass index, presence of interstitial lung abnormalities on computed tomography, and larger extent of resection. These factors guide treatment decision-making in these patients.