Surgery for colorectal cancer in elderly: a comparative analysis of risk factor in elective and urgency surgery

Abstract

Introduction: Colon cancer therapy is primarily surgical. Advanced age does not represent a contraindication to surgery. We analyse the results of surgery in ultra 75 patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer by examining the correlation between the comorbidity and any post-operative complications.

Materials and methods: We surgically treated 66 patients for colorectal cancer, aged over 75. The examined subjects were compromised for various reasons. We have evaluated the different influences of risk factors in elective and urgency operation.

Discussion: Several studies have shown that age alone is not a significant prognostic factor in survival after colonic surgery. The assessment of general conditions in elderly patients, as demonstrated by the literature, is a fundamental moment in the management of colorectal cancer.

Conclusions: The surgical choice should be made case by case (custom-made), not based on age only.

Keywords: Colorectal cancer; Elderly patients; Elective surgery; Urgency surgery.