Predictive Value of Preoperative Serum C-Reactive Protein for Recurrence after Definitive Surgical Repair of Enterocutaneous Fistula

Abstract Background Recurrence rates after surgical repair of enterocutaneous fistula (ECF) have not changed substantially. Serum C-reactive protein (s-CRP) has been used as an indicator of postoperative complications in abdominal surgery. Aim To determine the predictive value of preoperative s-CRP for recurrence after definitive surgical repair of ECF. Materials and Methods Fifty consecutive patients with ECF persistence submitted electively to definitive surgical repair (ECF resection with primary anastomosis) were included. Among several variables, preoperative s-CRP (primary independent variable), was assessed as a factor related to recurrence (dependent variable). Univariate (UA) and multivariate analyses (MA) were performed. Results ECF recurred in 19 patients (38%). UA and MA disclosed operative blood loss > 325 ml (p0.5 mg/dL (p