Indirect calorimetry to study the caloric demand in spine surgery: a technical note

Numerous aspects are important for a good recovery after spine surgery. Ensuring adequate caloric intake is essential. This is achieved by balancing the caloric demand with intakes, but an accurate calculation of energy requirement is as important as it is challenging. Predictive equations, although practical, introduce a certain degree of uncertainty. This technical note presents the method of measuring the air breathed by the patient, termed indirect calorimetry, as the most valuable means of determining the patient's caloric demand in spine surgery. This method can support dietitians in optimising postoperative nutritional care. It may also help prevent metabolic imbalance that could negatively influence recovery and rehabilitation.