Abstract

The purpose of this article is to convey the importance of nutrition in plastic surgery, to suggest outpatient nutritional interventions within the surgical care setting, and to assist the plastic surgeon in incorporating nutrition as a key practise enhancement strategy for the care of wound patients in the future. Nutritional state has a well-known impact on surgical results. Malnutrition is widespread among the hospitalized patient population, and up to 1 in 4 plastic surgery outpatients are at risk for malnutrition. Micro- and macronutrients are essential for optimal wound healing. Certain patient populations in the field of plastic surgery are more vulnerable to malnutrition, hence, universal screening and interventions should be implemented. Exposure and incentive interventions have been used in outpatient settings to increase optimal nutritional consumption and overcome obstacles. Universal screening utilising established and quick measures like the Canadian Nutritional Screening Tool (CNST) is suggested in the clinical context. Such screening should be accompanied by proper blood tests, BMI measures, and, if necessary, immediate referral to a dietitian. The term "rehabilitation" was coined with the help of surgery, and it refers to the dietary optimization of patients as well as the promotion of functional capacity development prior to surgery.

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