Hypoalbuminemia remains an independent predictor of complications following total joint arthroplasty.

ABSTRACT: Introduction:Hypoalbuminemia (<3.5?mg/dL) is an accepted marker of malnutrition, but it was unknown if low albumin remained an independent predictor of post-operative complications following primary total hip (THA) and knee (TKA) arthroplasty. Methods:The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database was queried for patients undergoing primary THA and TKA. Propensity score-matched analysis was used to control for co-morbid conditions. Results:Patients with low albumin demonstrated greater odds of death (by 2-21x), morbidity (by 25-51%), re-admission (by 45-54%), and increased length of stay. Conclusion:Low albumin remains an independent predictor of adverse outcomes following primary total joint arthroplasty.

SUBMITTER: Fryhofer GW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6806651 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Nov-Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature