Nutrition in Surgery: An Orthopaedic Perspective
Thomas M. Zink, S Kent, A Choudhary, Joseph J. Kavolus
Abstract
➤ Malnutrition is common among subsets of patients undergoing orthopaedic surgery and is associated with an increased risk of postoperative complications.➤ Serum proteins, in particular, albumin, may be used in the evaluation of nutritional status.➤ Anthropometric measurements and surveys also play a role in the evaluation of nutritional status.➤ Increased energy and nutrient requirements due to surgical procedures necessitate increased caloric and protein intake in the perioperative period, which may be achieved through diet or supplementation.➤ Evidence supports the use of protein-calorie, amino acid, and immunonutrition supplements. Vitamin D supplementation is an area of further consideration.➤ Diet restriction, activity alterations, pharmacotherapy, and bariatric surgery are all safe, effective approaches to weight loss, although the optimal timing and magnitude of preoperative weight loss require further investigation.