Pre-Operative Serum Albumin and Body Mass Index as Predictors of Post-Operative Morbidity and Mortality in Major Open Abdominal Surgeries

Abstract

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. To determine the role of low serum albumin and abnormal BMI and to observe those developing any morbidityAims and objectives: and mortality post operatively This study was performed from March 2020 to March 2021 in Yenepoya Medical College. Materials and methods: Mangalore. The study evaluated a total of 82 patients undergoing major abdominal surgeries. Those pregnant, having signicant 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 analyse the data. The study was male preponderant with 53 malesResults: 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 patients with hypoalbuminemia. There was higher complications in the post-operative period in those patients with hypoalbuminemia and abnormal BMI. Pre-operative Serum albumin and BMI are signicant predictors of post-operative morbidity.