Preoperative oral nutritional supplements improve outcomes for gastrointestinal cancer surgery

A systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 studies involving 1,201 patients revealed that preoperative oral nutritional supplements (ONS) significantly reduce infectious complications and improve nutritional and immune status in gastrointestinal cancer patients. Key findings included a reduction in white blood cell count and C-reactive protein levels, alongside improved albumin and prealbumin levels. However, no significant differences were noted in noninfectious complications or length of hospital stay, suggesting targeted benefits of ONS.