Automated CT erector spinae myosteatosis index correlates with handgrip strength in older surgical patients

Fully automated CT-based erector spinae muscle fat infiltration (IMAT Index) was associated with lower handgrip strength (ρ=-0.434, p=0.004) in 53 older surgical patients, but was not independently associated with global frailty after adjustment.

• Retrospective cross-sectional study of 53 geriatric surgical patients (mean age 77.4 ± 4.4) using a fully automated DLM for muscle segmentation at L3.
• Primary: erector spinae IMAT Index significantly correlated with handgrip strength (ρ=-0.434, p=0.004) and remained independent after adjustment (B=-1.808, 95% CI -2.994 to -0.622, p=0.004).
• Small sample size, cross-sectional design, and incomplete functional testing (effective n=21-53 per model) limit generalizability; no independent association with Clinical Frailty Scale.

Automated summary

RadPigeon summaries are original and for information only. They are not clinical advice.