Surgical treatment for gastric cancer in Turkish patients over age 70: early postoperative results and risk factors for mortality

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of advanced age on early postoperative results and to investigate risk factors for mortality in Turkish gastric cancer patients.

Methods: From 2002 to 2007, 549 patients who underwent gastrectomy for gastric cancer were divided into two groups as patients younger than 70 years and patients aged 70 years or older.

Results: There were 387 patients in the younger group and 162 in the older group. Morbidity rates were similar (25.1% vs. 29.0%). Mortality was higher among the elderly patients (2.6% vs. 9.9%). Advanced age, albumin levels lower than 3 mg/dl, higher American Society of Anesthesiologists score, palliative resections and resection of two or more additional organs were independent risk factors for mortality.

Conclusion: Age alone should not preclude gastric resection in elderly patients. However, for patients with multiple risk factors, more limited surgery should be considered.