Elective laparotomy wound healing as a function of preoperative nutritional status: A clinical trial

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The healing of surgical wounds is an essential part of getting back on your feet after surgery. Wound healing delays, infection rates, and recovery times are all correlated with malnutrition, which includes protein-energy deficiency and micronutrient deficiencies. The purpose of this research is to examine how patients' nutritional state before elective laparotomy affects their wound healing after the procedure.
Materials and Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted at department of General Surgery, Government Medical College, Markapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India from August 2023 to July 2024. Preoperatively, patients slated for elective laparotomy had their nutritional condition evaluated through clinical examination and biochemical assays, which included micronutrient levels, total protein, and serum albumin. We tracked wound infection, dehiscence, and closure time as well as other parameters for 6 weeks after surgery to ensure proper healing.
Results: The study involved a total of 100 patients. There was a strong correlation between preoperative malnutrition (low blood albumin levels, low body mass index, and particular micronutrient deficiencies) and postoperative problems (dehiscence, wound infection, and delayed wound healing). Wound healing results were most significantly predicted by serum albumin level and body mass index (BMI) in a multivariate analysis. Patients in the low-nutritional-risk group demonstrated significantly better healing than those in the high-risk group.
Conclusion: Patients' ability to repair wounds after elective laparotomy depends critically on their nutritional status before the procedure. In order to enhance patient outcomes, this study highlights the significance of a thorough preoperative nutritional examination.