Onodera et al reported a simple prognostic index for the nutritional status of surgical patients in Japan.
Parameters:
(1) serum albumin in g/dL
(2) absolute lymphocyte count per microliter (ALC)
PNI =
= (10 * (albumin)) + (0.005 * (ALC))
Interpretation:
• A PNI > 45 is associated with intact anastomosis after intestinal resection. This subsequently has a marker of good nutritional status.
• A PNI < 40 is associated with a high risk of anastomotic failure.
