Excessive muscle loss in gastric cancer patients predicts complications

A study involving 335 gastric cancer patients undergoing radical surgery found significant declines in skeletal muscle mass index (SMI), skeletal muscle density (SMD), and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) during the perioperative period. Factors such as age ≥65 and low handgrip strength increased the risk of excessive SMI loss, while laparoscopic surgery offered protection. Notably, excessive SMI and SMD losses were linked to higher postoperative complications, prolonged hospital stays, and greater costs, highlighting the importance of managing preoperative risk factors.