Bidirectional Relationship Between Hypoalbuminemia and Postoperative Pneumonia in Elderly Hip Fracture Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Preoperative hypoalbuminemia is a significant predictor of postoperative pneumonia in elderly patients with HFs, and postoperative pneumonia, in turn, exacerbates hypoalbuminemia, creating a deleterious cycle. Early nutritional assessment and intervention are essential in breaking this cycle and improving outcomes. These findings support the incorporation of routine nutritional screening and optimization into the preoperative care of elderly HF patients to reduce complications and enhance recovery.