J Orthop. 2019 Nov-Dec; 16(6): 552–558.

Hypoalbuminemia remains an independent predictor of complications following total joint arthroplasty

George W. Fryhofer,a,∗ Matthew Sloan,a and Neil P. Shethb

Hip Knee

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.

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