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The Effect of a Preoperative Home-delivered Protein-rich Meal Service to Improve Protein Intake in Surgical Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND
The preoperative period likely provides an important opportunity to improve postoperative recovery as suggested by the finding that low nutritional status is a predictor of increased postoperative complications and longer length of stay. It was investigated whether a home-delivered protein-rich meal service improves protein intake relative to requirements within 3 weeks prior to surgery compared to usual care.


METHODS
A randomized controlled trial in adults with planned surgery was performed at the Orthopedics, Urology, Gynecology or General Surgery department were included (n = 126). The intervention group received six protein-rich dishes per day for 3 weeks and the control group sustained their usual diet. Dietary intake, nutritional status, hand grip strength, physical performance and quality of life were assessed at baseline and after 3 weeks. Patient satisfaction was reported after 3 weeks and data on complications and length of stay 30 days after surgery.


RESULTS
Protein intake relative to requirements significantly improved by 16% and energy intake relative to requirements by 19% for the meal service compared to usual care. The intervention group experienced significantly less stress with preparing meals and were more satisfied with the presentation of the meals than the control group. No significant effects of the intervention were detected on other secondary outcomes.


CONCLUSION
The home-delivered protein-rich meal service was successfully implemented before surgery and improves protein and energy intake relative to requirements within 3 weeks while patient satisfaction maintained. The preoperative period serves as a window of opportunity to prepare patients before hospitalization. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.