Predictive value of preoperative serum C-reactive protein for recurrence after definitive surgical repair of enterocutaneous fistula.

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. ​ The aim of this study was to determine the predictive value of preoperative s-CRP for recurrence after definitive surgical repair of ECF.

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 and multivariate analyses were performed.

RESULTS: ECF recurred in 19 patients (38%). Univariate and multivariate analyses disclosed operative blood loss greater than 325 mL (P < .05) and preoperative s-CRP greater than .5 mg/dL (P < .01) as the only risk factors for recurrence. ECF recurrence rates were significantly higher for patients with preoperative s-CRP above this level (53% vs 11%, P < .01). After conservative and surgical management, overall ECF closure was attained in 40 patients (80%).

CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that s-CRP may serve as a useful parameter to predict potential failure (recurrence) in patients submitted to definitive closure of ECF.