title: Anthropometric parameters for preoperative screening to predict high-risk patients.
abstract: Prediction of serious postoperative complications by using standard anthropometric variables was attempted in 460 patients undergoing a major surgical procedure. Handgrip dynamometry was also carried out in 249 of the patients. None of the preoperative variables were of predictive value to postoperative complications, relating the method to its specified, sensitivity and validity. Upper arm anthropometry and handgrip dynamometry are rapid and inexpensive tests for detecting malnutrition, but they are not useful for preoperative screening to predict postoperative morbidity because appropriate standards are locking.
authors.affiliation: University of Cologne, West-Germany, Department of Surgery.
authors.forename: U
authors.initials: U
authors.lastname: Brenner
authors.forename: U
authors.initials: U
authors.lastname: Wolters
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Said
authors.forename: J M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Müller
mesh_terms: D000886:Anthropometry; D005260:Female; D006225:Hand / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009119:Muscle Contraction; D009752:Nutritional Status; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011300:Preoperative Care; D012016:Reference Values; D012307:Risk Factors; D012885:Skinfold Thickness