Zhuang T, Shapiro LM, Fogel N, et al. - This study sought to evaluate the null hypothesis that there is no relationship between perioperative laboratory markers (serum albumin and hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c]) and incidence of surgical site infection (SSI) after soft tissue upper extremity surgery. Researchers examined patient-level data from a large, insurance-based database containing supplemental laboratory results. They distinguished patients undergoing soft tissue upper extremity surgery (defined as carpal tunnel release, trigger finger release, wrist ganglion excision, cubital tunnel release, Dupuytren partial fasciectomy, or first dorsal compartment release) with serum albumin or HbA1c measurements within 90 days of surgery. Logistic regression models were constructed to adjust for patient demographics and baseline comorbidities using the Elixhauser comorbidity index. The results showed that hypoalbuminemia and increased HbA1c (in patients with diabetes) are risk factors for SSI within 30 days following soft tissue upper extremity surgery. The data demonstrate that preoperative assessment of these laboratory markers may be a beneficial tool for risk stratification and identification of high-risk patients for nutritional or glycemic optimization.