Background: Healing is a catabolic process needing energy. Any malnutrition leads to impaired wound healing. Some of the markers of the nutritional status of the body that are routinely used are the BMI and the levels of serum albumin of the patients. In the current study we evaluated the role of serum albumin and Body Mass Index as predictors of postoperative morbidity and mortality both in elective and emergency major surgeries.
Aims and objectives: To determine the role of low serum albumin and abnormal BMI and to observe those developing any morbidity and mortality post operatively.
Materials and methods: The study evaluated a total of 82 patients and undergoing major abdominal surgeries. Those pregnant, having significant co-morbidities were excluded. Pre-operative serum albumin measurements were done, BMI was calculated and post-operative morbidity & mortality were recorded. The data was compiled and standard statistical tests applied to analyze the data.
Results: The study was male preponderant with 53 males and 29 females. Mean duration of stay in ICU and ward in those with normal albumin levels was 2.158 days and 8.68 days respectively compared to 4.984 days and 11.06 days in the hypoalbuminemia. There were higher complications in the post-operative period in those patients with hypoalbuminemia and abnormal BMI.
Conclusion: Pre-operative Serum albumin and BMI are significant predictors of post-operative morbidity.
Published Date: 2022-03-18; Received Date: 2022-02-18
