Resumen

BARRERA E, Alejandro et al. Early results of surgery for colorectal cancer among patients aged 75 years or more. Rev Chil Cir [online]. 2012, vol.64, n.1, pp. 63-67. ISSN 0718-4026.  doi: 10.4067/S0718-40262012000100010.

Background: Colon cancer is more common in older people, who can behave differently than their younger counterparts after colorectal surgery. Aim: To report the early results of surgery for colorectal cancer among patients aged 75 years or more. Material and Methods: Prospective analysis of 161 patients whose age ranged from 75 to 92 years (61% females), operated for a colorectal cancer between 1991 and 2010. Results: Sixty six percent of patients had tumors located in the right colon. Karnofsky index was below 70% in 75 of participants. Sixty seven patients (38%) had one or more postoperative complication. The rate of anastomosis dehiscence was 2%. Mean hospital stay was 10 days. One patient died. Conclusions: Colorectal surgery can be safely performed in subjects older than 75 years, provided that an adequate preoperative assessment is performed and patients are carefully selected.

Palabras clave : Colorectal cancer; colorectal surgery; elderly.