Body mass index as a predictor of complications and conversion in patients undergoing laparoscopic colectomy

Abstract

Objective: Evaluate the predictive value of body mass index (BMI) for hospital length-of-stay, surgical conversion, and postoperative complications in laparoscopic colorectal surgeries. Methods: Retrospective analysis of 152 patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery. Patients were divided into two groups: group I (BMI≤30) and group II (BMI>30). The average hospital length-of-stay and the complication and conversion rates of the groups were compared. Results: Group II had a longer average hospital length-of-stay (9.852 versus 7.112 days) and higher conversion rate (33.3 versus 14.4%). BMI>30 is a risk factor for conversion, with odds ratio (OR) of 2.972 (95% confidence interval - CI 1.157-7.633). No significant difference was observed between the groups regarding complications. Conclusions: Obesity (BMI>30) significantly increases the conversion rate of laparoscopic colorectal surgery and increases the average hospital length-of-stay of patients.