The effect of a low preoperative albumin level on the long-term mortality: a meta-regression analysis.

A recent meta-regression analysis published in Surgery Today examined the effect of low preoperative albumin levels on long-term mortality in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The analysis found that preoperative hypoalbuminemia is associated with increased long-term mortality and postoperative complications. While there was significant heterogeneity in the pooled analysis, the meta-regression analysis did not establish a significant impact of age on mortality risk. However, the limited inclusion of pediatric studies highlights the need for further research. The study concludes that the harmful effect of preoperative hypoalbuminemia on long-term survival following cardiac surgery is consistent, regardless of age, but other sources of heterogeneity, such as patient comorbidities and nutritional statuses, should be explored. [Extracted from the article]