Association of preoperative handgrip strength and postoperative recovery with outcomes in cardiac surgery patients ≥60 years old

Background: Cardiac surgery is a critical treatment option for patients with cardiovascular disease; however, it carries a significant risk of complications. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between changes in handgrip strength and postoperative complications in older adults undergoing cardiac surgery to establish handgrip strength as a practical tool for improving surgical outcomes. Methods: This prospective cohort study included 105 patients aged 60 years or more who underwent cardiac surgery. We evaluated whether handgrip recovery (handgrip strength on postoperative day 5/preoperative handgrip strength) was superior to absolute handgrip strength in predicting 30-day postoperative complications. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the association between handgrip recovery and the incidence of postoperative complications. Results: = .002). Logistic regression analysis demonstrated a statistically significant association between handgrip recovery and the incidence of postoperative complications. Conclusions: Low handgrip recovery is a superior predictor of postoperative complications, including longer intensive care unit and hospitalization durations, in older patients who undergo cardiac surgery under cardiopulmonary bypass.