Role of preoperative C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate in predicting postoper-ative infections following multiple fractures / 中华创伤杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To discuss the value of preoperative C-reactive protein (CRP) and eryth-rocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) in predicting postoperative infections following multiple fractures. Methods A study was conducted in 78 patients with multiple fractures (complicated with pelvic frac-ture, ISS > 18) treated in our department from December 2006 to March 2009. CRP and ESR levels be-fore second damage control operation as well as postoperative infections were recorded. Meanwhile, the optimal cut-off value was determined by receiver operating characteristic curve and analyzed. Results There were 11 patients with postoperative infection. The preoperative optimal cut-off value of CRP was 50 mg/L, with a sensitivity of 0.909 and a specificity of 0.821. The preoperative optimal cut-off value of ESR was 27.5 mm/h, with a sensitivity of 0.818 and a specificity of 0.791. The combination tests showed the sensitivity and specificity of 0.875 and 0.900 respectively. Conclusion CRP (50 mg/L) can be a sensitive predictive index for postoperative infection in the multiple fractures (complicated with pelvic fractures). Combination test of CRP and ESR can benefit diagnosis of postoperative infection.