The 30-day readmission rate of patients with an overlap of probable sarcopenia and malnutrition undergoing major oncological surgery

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the 30-day unplanned readmission rate and its association with overlapping probable sarcopenia and malnutrition after major oncological surgery. Methods: A prospective bicentric observational cohort study performed with adult oncological patients undergoing major surgery. The primary outcome was unplanned readmission within 30 days after discharge and the association with probable sarcopenia and malnutrition. Nutritional status and probable sarcopenia were assessed just prior to surgery. Patients classified using subjective global assessment, as B and C were malnourished. Probable sarcopenia was defined using SARC-F (strength, assistance with walking, rise from a chair, climb stairs, falls) questionnaire ≥4 points and low HGS (handgrip strength) <27kg for males and <16kg for females. Results: Two hundred and thirty-eight patients (51.7% female) with a median age of 60 years were included. The 30-day readmission rate was 9.0% (n=20). Univariate analysis showed an association of malnutrition (odds ratio (OR) = 4.84; p=0.024) and probable sarcopenia (OR = 4.94; p=0.049) with 30-day readmission. Furthermore, when both conditions were present, the patient was almost nine times more likely to be readmitted (OR = 8.9; p=0.017). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that overlapping probable sarcopenia and malnutrition was an independent predictor of 30-day unplanned readmission (OR = 8.10, 95% confidence interval (95%CI) 1.20-0.55; p=0.032). Conclusion: The 30-day unplanned readmission rate was 9.0%, and the overlap of probable sarcopenia and malnutrition is an independent predictor for the 30-day unplanned readmission after major oncologic surgery.

Keywords

• Sarcopenia
• Malnutrition
• Nutritional status
• Patient readmission
• Surgical oncology
• Postoperative complications