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  • Title: [Colorectal carcinoma in old age].
    Author: Wagner HE, Aebi U, Barbier PA.
    Journal: Schweiz Med Wochenschr; 1987 Oct 10; 117(41):1571-6. PubMed ID: 2445023.
    Abstract:
    84 patients aged over 80 years with colorectal cancer were evaluated. 54% had underlying associated illnesses. 27% underwent emergency surgery because of ileus or perforation. Resection rate for tumours was 74%, but only 64% of the operations were curative and 36% palliative. An early tumour stage (UICC stage I and II) was found in 51% of the patients. Operative mortality was 14.3%. The 3- and 5-year survival rate was 38% and 30% respectively. This study shows that even in elderly patients with suspicion of colorectal cancer a rapid assessment is mandatory to avoid tumour complications. This is the only way to lower the rate of emergency surgery; by gaining time the patient with risk factors can be prepared preoperatively for the abdominal operation. By early assessment and elective operation the high mortality rate of the elderly patient can be lowered. It would seem that diagnostic and therapeutic nihilism in the elderly is inappropriate. Although the crude 5-year survival rate approaches 30%, cautious assessment is necessary and individual evaluation of cases warranted.
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