[The limits of normality tables for anthropometric parameters]

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Surgical Patient Care
• Medical Statistics

Background:

• Accurate preoperative nutritional assessment is crucial for surgical outcomes.
• Anthropometric parameters are commonly used to evaluate nutritional status.
• Reference tables for normality vary globally and regionally.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare anthropometric parameter results using two different normality reference tables.
• To evaluate the impact of reference table selection on preoperative nutritional state assessment in surgical patients.
• To question the universal applicability of existing anthropometric reference tables.

Main Methods:

• A sample of surgical patients was assessed.
• Anthropometric parameters were measured.
• Results were compared between a standard international reference table and a table specific to Spain.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) was observed between the results obtained using the two reference tables.
• The choice of reference table markedly influenced the assessment of preoperative nutritional state.
• This divergence suggests potential inaccuracies in universal application.

Conclusions:

• The findings challenge the assumption of universal validity for anthropometric normality reference tables.
• Regional or population-specific reference data may be necessary for accurate nutritional assessment in surgical patients.
• Further research is warranted to establish appropriate reference standards for diverse patient populations.