Effect of Hypoalbuminemia on Perioperative Complications and Hospital Outcomes in Ankle Fracture Fixation

Abstract

Introduction/Purpose: Pre-operative serum albumin levels have routinely been utilized to assess nutritional status. Malnutrition, as defined by serum albumin levels < 3.5 g/dL, has been associated with worse post-operative outcomes in multiple surgical settings. The effect of hypo-albuminemia on 30-day post-operative outcomes after operative fixation of ankle fractures has not been well delineated.