When a patient over 90 years old faces colorectal cancer, the decision to operate is a heavy one. Families and doctors must weigh the risks of surgery against the goals of care. New data looking at over 5,000 patients provides a clearer picture of what to expect during the first 30 days after surgery.
The data shows that for elective surgeries, the 30-day mortality rate was 2.5%. However, the risk jumped significantly to 18.8% for patients undergoing emergency surgery. The study also found that a laparoscopic approach, which uses small incisions, was linked to a lower risk of death compared to an open surgical approach.
While the results suggest that surgery can be safe for fit patients in their 90s, the evidence is not yet certain. It is important to remember that emergency situations and open surgeries carry higher risks for this age group. Patients and families should talk to their doctors about the specific risks of emergency versus elective procedures.
