Our Summary

This research paper looks at the outcomes of surgery for rectal cancer in patients who are older than 75 years, compared to those who are younger. The study used data from 400 patients who had undergone a specific type of surgery for rectal cancer. The researchers then divided the patients into two groups - those aged 75 and older, and those younger than 75.

The results showed that patients aged 75 and older were more likely to have other health conditions and were more likely to need emergency medical care. While overall survival rates were lower in the older group, the chances of dying specifically from the cancer were similar for both groups.

In conclusion, the study suggests that age alone should not prevent patients from having this type of surgery. The surgery also improved quality of life for patients in both groups, with benefits including improved mental health, sexual function, and body image. The surgery was also found to be cost-effective.

FAQs

  1. Does age affect the outcomes of surgery for rectal cancer?
  2. Can this type of surgery improve the quality of life in older patients?
  3. Is the surgery for rectal cancer cost-effective for patients who are older than 75 years?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about proctectomy is to discuss the potential benefits and risks of the surgery, as well as any alternative treatment options. It is important for patients to be well-informed about the procedure and to ask any questions they may have before making a decision. Additionally, patients should follow post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and recovery. Regular follow-up appointments with the healthcare team are also important to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended proctectomy include those diagnosed with rectal cancer, particularly those who are younger than 75 years old. Additionally, patients who have other health conditions or require emergency medical care may also be candidates for proctectomy. Age alone should not be a determining factor in whether a patient is recommended for this type of surgery, as the benefits of the surgery, such as improved quality of life and cost-effectiveness, outweigh the potential risks in older patients.

Timeline

Before proctectomy:

  • Patient is diagnosed with rectal cancer through various imaging tests and biopsies.
  • Patient undergoes preoperative evaluation to assess overall health and fitness for surgery.
  • Patient may undergo neoadjuvant therapy, such as chemotherapy and radiation, to shrink the tumor before surgery.
  • Patient is informed about the risks and benefits of proctectomy, and discusses treatment options with their healthcare team.
  • Surgery is scheduled and patient undergoes the procedure, which involves removal of the rectum and possibly surrounding tissues.
  • Patient may stay in the hospital for a few days to recover and receive postoperative care.

After proctectomy:

  • Patient experiences pain and discomfort at the surgical site, which is managed with pain medications.
  • Patient may have a temporary colostomy or ileostomy to allow the bowels to heal.
  • Patient is monitored for complications such as infection, bleeding, or bowel obstruction.
  • Patient undergoes follow-up appointments with their healthcare team to monitor recovery and assess for any signs of cancer recurrence.
  • Patient may undergo additional treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, depending on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer.
  • Patient gradually resumes normal activities and may undergo physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.
  • Patient undergoes routine surveillance tests, such as colonoscopies, to monitor for any signs of cancer recurrence in the future.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about proctectomy include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with proctectomy surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after proctectomy surgery?
  3. Will I need a temporary or permanent colostomy after the surgery?
  4. How will proctectomy surgery affect my bowel function and quality of life?
  5. What is the success rate of proctectomy surgery for treating rectal cancer?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before undergoing proctectomy surgery?
  7. How many proctectomy surgeries have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  8. What is the expected outcome of the surgery in terms of cancer recurrence and overall survival?
  9. How will my age and other health conditions affect the outcome of proctectomy surgery?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or post-operative care instructions I should follow to optimize my recovery after proctectomy surgery?

Reference

Authors: Montemurro S, Ammendola M, Gallo G, Romano R, Condoluci A, Curto L, De Franciscis S, Serra R, Sacco R, Sammarco G. Journal: Minerva Chir. 2019 Feb;74(1):19-25. doi: 10.23736/S0026-4733.18.07755-6. Epub 2018 Apr 13. PMID: 29658682