A Consensus on Current Issues of Multidisciplinary Care for Geriatric Patients with Frailty Undergoing Routine Surgical Procedures

The demographic shift towards an increasing number of older and oldest-old individuals is a global phenomenon. This trend has been accompanied by a rise in surgical interventions targeting individuals aged 65 years and above. However, the traditional clinical approach to treating single diseases often proves insufficient for geriatric patients due to multiple factors, such as the presence of multiple chronic conditions, the use of multiple medications, physical frailty, malnutrition, cognitive impairments, and diminished physiological function. With age, metabolic processes tend to slow down, leading to reduced efficiency and diminished ability to cope with stressors. These factors, coupled with the increasing frequency of surgical interventions, pose a significant risk of postoperative complications and even mortality. Consequently, a comprehensive approach is essential for geriatric surgical patients. This approach encompasses preoperative assessment, meticulous surgical planning, and complex postoperative care. A multidisciplinary team of medical professionals is indispensable for providing comprehensive care throughout the treatment course.