Introduction

One of the key, modifiable factors influencing the course of surgical treatment and recovery is nutritional status, particularly adequate protein intake. Nutritional deficiencies in older adults are common and can significantly worsen surgical outcomes and postoperative prognosis. For this reason, it is justified to use an objective assessment in the form of nutritional indices.

Aim

The aim of this study was to review the current literature on the impact of low protein intake and poor nutritional status in older adults on the risk of postoperative complications and the course of recovery.

Methods

A review of recent publications concerning elderly patients undergoing surgical procedures was conducted using the PubMed database. The cited studies assessed preoperative nutritional status using indices such as the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) and the Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI), as well as their association with postoperative outcomes. Six observational and cohort studies were included in the analysis, evaluating the incidence of complications, perioperative mortality, length of hospital stay, and the course of convalescence.

Conclusions

The cited studies clearly demonstrate that poorer nutritional status associated with low dietary protein intake significantly increases the risk of postoperative complications and delays recovery in elderly people.