The Application of Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis Phase Angle in Cardiac Surgery

Introduction: Malnutrition is a recognized risk factor for unfavorable clinical outcomes and complications in cardiovascular and surgical patients. Nutritional status can be assessed with various methods, and the phase angle (PA) derived from bioelectrical impedance analysis is one of the most reliable parameters for that purpose. Methods: The aim of this narrative review was to present the available data regarding PA application in cardiac surgery. After careful analysis of PubMed and Scopus databases, 21 articles were included in the final analysis. Results: PA is a parameter that can be used for nutritional status assessment in a cardiac surgery environment. It is suggested that it is more accurate than other criteria in malnutrition identification in this group of patients. The available data shows its association with mortality, length of intensive care unit stay, and hospital stay. It can also predict adverse events such as blood transfusion or mechanical ventilation. Conclusions: The available data underscores the usefulness of PA in preoperative risk assessment and post-procedural monitoring. PA could be introduced in everyday clinical assessment in cardiac surgery.