The Role of Serum Albumin Level as a Predictor of Post-Operative Outcomes Following Emergency Exploratory Laparotomy: A Prospective Study

Abstract

Background: An emergency exploratory laparotomy is a crucial surgical technique used to treat abdominal diseases that pose a risk to life. Optimizing patient treatment in this situation requires the identification of variables that predict post-operative results. A widely available biomarker called serum albumin has been suggested as a potential predictor of mortality, length of hospital stay, and post-operative problems. Methods: 100 patients who underwent emergency exploratory laparotomies between January 2021 and June 2022 were the subject of a prospective study. Clinical information was gathered along with measurements of the serum albumin levels prior to surgery. Post-operative outcomes were recorded, including complications, length of stay in the hospital, and mortality. Results: When compared to patients with normal albumin levels, those with low serum albumin levels (3.5 g/dL) had a greater incidence of post-operative problems (62% vs. 38%, p <0.05) and longer hospital admissions (12.7 days vs. 8.4 days, p< 0.001). Additionally, hypoalbuminemic individuals had considerably greater mortality (16% vs. 6%, p <0.05). Conclusion: In emergency exploratory laparotomies, pre-operative serum albumin level is a useful predictor of post-operative outcomes. Increased complications, extended hospital stays, and greater mortality rates are all linked to hypoalbuminemia. The therapeutic significance of serum albumin evaluation for risk stratification, preoperative planning, and well-informed decision-making in this complex surgical scenario is highlighted by these findings. To validate these findings and investigate potential strategies to enhance outcomes, more study is required.