Detection of dangerous malnutrition

The assessment of malnutrition by simple methods was studied in 120 patients undergoing elective major abdominal surgery to determine which index was of the most value in predicting postoperative complications. Weight for height and weight loss were of little significant value; serum albumin less th...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inJPEN. Journal of parenteral and enteral nutrition Vol. 6; no. 2; p. 119
Main Authors Klidjian, A M, Archer, T J, Foster, K J, Karran, S J
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published United States 01.03.1982
Subjects
Anthropometry - methods
Body Height
Body Weight
Digestive System Neoplasms - surgery
Gastrointestinal Diseases - surgery
Humans
Nutrition Disorders - diagnosis
Postoperative Complications - prevention & control
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Summary:The assessment of malnutrition by simple methods was studied in 120 patients undergoing elective major abdominal surgery to determine which index was of the most value in predicting postoperative complications. Weight for height and weight loss were of little significant value; serum albumin less than 35 g/l was more significant (p less than 0.05) but predicted only a quarter of those patients who developed serious complications. Measurements of muscle stores by anthropometry (arm and forearm muscle circumference) predicted nearly half the patients (p less than 0.01). By far the most useful index was hand-grip dynamometry, which predicted 90% of those who developed complications (p less than 0.001). The incidence of serious complications was 6 times greater in those patients with a low grip strength. Hand-grip dynamometry appears to be a useful screening test of patients at risk, and a valuable additional test for nutritional assessment.
ISSN:0148-6071
DOI:10.1177/0148607182006002119