Surgery for colorectal cancer in patients aged ≥80 years was associated with significantly higher postoperative morbidity (43.5% vs. 33.9%) and mortality (8.0% vs. 2.6%) compared to younger patients.
Observational (n=19,080)
Yes
Does age ≥ 80 years increase postoperative morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer?
Advanced age (≥80 years) is associated with increased postoperative morbidity and mortality in colorectal cancer surgery, primarily due to general complications, but is not an absolute contraindication to surgery.
Absolute Event Rate: 8% vs 2.6%
The risks and benefits of surgery for colorectal cancer in old patients have not been unequivocally defined. The present investigation was carried out in 309 hospitals as a prospective multicenter study. In the period between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2001, a total of 19,080 patients were recruited for the study; 16,142 (84.6%) patients were younger than 80 years ( or =80). Significant differences between the age groups were observed for general postoperative complications (22.3% for or =80). Specific postoperative complications were identical in both groups. Overall, significantly elevated morbidity and mortality rates were found with increasing age (morbidity: 33.9% vs. 43.5%; mortality: 2.6% vs. 8.0%). The distribution of tumor stages revealed a significantly higher percentage of locally advanced tumors in the older age group (stage II: 28.0% vs. 34.4%). In contrast, no increase in metastasizing tumors was found in the older age group (stage IV: 17.4% vs. 14.1%). Logistic regression showed that, in concert with a number of other parameters, age is a significant influencing factor on postoperative morbidity and mortality. The increase in postoperative morbidity and mortality rates associated with aging is a result of the increase in general postoperative complications, in particular, pneumonia and cardiovascular complications. Age as such does not represent a contraindication for surgical treatment. The short-term outcome and quality of life are of overriding importance for the geriatric patient.
Marusch et al. (Mon,) conducted a observational in Colorectal carcinoma (n=19,080). Age ≥80 years vs. Age <80 years was evaluated on Overall mortality. Surgery for colorectal cancer in patients aged ≥80 years was associated with significantly higher postoperative morbidity (43.5% vs. 33.9%) and mortality (8.0% vs. 2.6%) compared to younger patients.