Grip strength predicts postoperative ileus among patients undergoing abdominal minimally invasive surgery: a prospective multicenter cohort study

Postoperative ileus (POI) is a prevalent complication following abdominal surgery, leading to extended hospitalization and escalated medical expenses. Few studies have investigated the association between grip strength and POI after abdominal minimally invasive surgery (MIS).

A prospective multicenter cohort study was conducted using data from a prospectively registered database of patients undergoing abdominal MIS from March to December 2022. Grip strength levels were categorized and analyzed for their association with POI using multiple regression analysis with demographic adjustments. A smooth curve was generated to visualize the linear relationship.

Out of 501 eligible patients, 393 were analyzed, with 67 (17.05%) developing POI. Grip strength was significantly and independently associated with POI, with each 1 kg and 8.57 kg (SD) increase in grip strength resulting in ORs of 0.94 and 0.61, respectively. Grip strength categories specific to sex and age were significantly associated with POI incidence, with individuals in the high grip strength group having a lower risk. Subgroup analysis showed grip strength as a significant predictor of POI risk, especially for males and older individuals. Higher grip strength was associated with a significantly lower risk of POI in males (OR = 0.29, 95% CI 0.09–0.90, p = 0.031) and older adults over 60 years old (OR = 0.31, 95% CI 0.10–0.98, p = 0.046).

Grip strength can predict the occurrence of POI in patients undergoing abdominal MIS. This can help identify high-risk individuals and improve perioperative management for better outcomes.