Study of Muscle Strength and Frailty Tests to Predict Complications After Major Abdominal Surgery in Adults 65 and Older

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying whether simple tests for frailty and muscle strength can help predict which adults aged 65 and older face higher risks of problems after major abdominal surgery. This observational study aims to see if these quick assessments can be easily included in routine pre-surgical visits and if they can effectively predict postoperative complications. The goal is to improve how risks are assessed before surgery using various measures of frailty. Participants will undergo a series of brief tests during their usual preoperative clinic visit. These tests include evaluating frailty with the Clinical Frailty Scale, measuring respiratory muscle strength with handheld devices, assessing hand-grip strength, performing the Timed Up-and-Go test, estimating skeletal muscle mass via bioelectrical impedance, measuring muscle thickness using ultrasound, screening cognitive function with the Mini-Cog test, and assessing nutritional risk using the Perioperative Nutrition Screen. All tests are performed by trained staff and take about 20 minutes. After surgery, researchers will review participants medical records at 30 and 90 days to identify any complications or health issues. During the study, participants complete these physical and cognitive assessments only once during their pre-surgical visit. Researchers collect and validate data carefully with quality assurance plans including equipment calibration and data checks. The main measures include how feasible it is to add these tests into routine care and how well the frailty assessments predict complications after surgery. Participants are observed through medical records for up to 90 days after surgery to monitor outcomes. The study is expected to enroll about 100 participants and continues through August 2026.

Frailty and Muscle Strength Tests in Older Adults Undergoing Major Surgery