Impact of CT-measured sarcopenic obesity on postoperative outcomes following colon cancer surgery

This study aimed to investigate the influence of sarcopenic obesity on anastomotic leak following elective colon resection for non-metastatic colon cancer. Secondary outcomes included overall morbidity, mortality and length of hospital stay.

This retrospective observational study, conducted at a colorectal surgery referral centre, spanned from January 1, 2015, to January 1, 2020. A total of 544 consecutive patients who underwent elective colon resection were included in the analysis, excluding patients with rectal cancer, urgent surgery, absence of anastomosis, lack of imaging, multivisceral resections and synchronic tumours.

Postoperative complications were observed in 177 (32.3%) patients, with 51 (9.31%) classified as severe (Clavien-Dindo > II). Sarcopenic obesity was identified in 9.39% of the sample and emerged as an independent predictor of increased overall morbidity [OR 2.15 (1.14–3.69); p = 0.016] and 30-day mortality [OR 5.07 (1.22–20.93); p = 0.03] and was significantly associated with the development of anastomotic leak [OR 2.95 (1.41–6.18); p = 0.007]. Furthermore, it increased the risk of reoperation and was linked to a prolonged length of hospital stay.

CT-measured sarcopenic obesity demonstrates a discernible correlation with an elevated risk of postoperative morbidity and mortality in the context of colon cancer surgery.