Hand grip dynamometry as a predictor of postoperative complications. Reappraisal using age standardized grip strengths

Abstract

A mechanical hand grip dynamometer was used to derive age- and sex-related standard grip strengths from 247 healthy volunteers between 16 and 95 yr old. Preoperative grip strength was measured in 90 patients and related to postoperative complication rates. A grip strength of 85% standard for age and sex was found to be the most effective cut-off for prediction of postoperative complications in terms of sensitivity and specificity, predicting 74% of the complications (p < 0.05). Specificity is improved over previously published standards related to sex alone especially when assessing the elderly patient (50% vs 21%). A grip strength below the recommended cut-off for age and sex suggests that the patient is in a high-risk group and demands further investigation of nutritional status. Studies of pre-operative nutritional support for the at risk group need to be undertaken.