Our Summary

This research paper talks about the growing area of elderly health care, specifically focusing on cancer treatment. The elderly population is increasing and they often have complex health conditions, including a higher risk of developing cancer. This has led to the development of new treatment methods tailored for older patients. The paper discusses how to prepare these patients for surgery, how to manage different types of cancer, advancements in less invasive surgical procedures, and ethical issues to consider.

FAQs

  1. What is the role of surgical oncology in the treatment of elderly patients?
  2. How is surgical oncology adapting to the increasing elderly population?
  3. What are the surgical advances in minimally invasive surgery for elderly cancer patients?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about oncologic surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, such as fasting before surgery and stopping certain medications. This will help ensure the surgery goes smoothly and reduces the risk of complications. Additionally, it is important to discuss any concerns or questions with your healthcare team before the surgery to alleviate any anxiety or uncertainty.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for oncologic surgery include those who have been diagnosed with cancer and are deemed to be fit for surgery by their healthcare team. This may include patients of all ages, but especially those who are deemed to be medically stable and able to tolerate the physical and emotional demands of surgery. In the context of geriatric medicine, elderly patients who are diagnosed with cancer may also be recommended for oncologic surgery if they are deemed to be strong candidates for the procedure and have a good prognosis. It is important for healthcare providers to carefully assess each patient’s individual health status and overall well-being before recommending surgery, and to consider factors such as the patient’s age, comorbidities, and overall quality of life.

Timeline

Before oncologic surgery:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with cancer through imaging tests, biopsies, and other diagnostic procedures.
  2. Patient undergoes preoperative evaluations and tests to assess their overall health and fitness for surgery.
  3. Treatment options, including surgery, are discussed with the patient and their family, and a treatment plan is developed.
  4. Patient may undergo chemotherapy or radiation therapy to shrink the tumor before surgery.
  5. Patient meets with the surgical team to discuss the procedure, potential risks and complications, and postoperative care.

After oncologic surgery:

  1. Patient is monitored closely in the recovery room for any immediate postoperative complications.
  2. Patient is transferred to a hospital room for further monitoring and pain management.
  3. Patient undergoes physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength and function.
  4. Patient may require additional treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy to complete their cancer treatment.
  5. Patient follows up with their surgical team for long-term monitoring and surveillance for recurrence or complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and benefits of surgery for my specific type of cancer?
  2. Will I need any additional treatments (such as chemotherapy or radiation) before or after surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and what can I do to optimize my recovery?
  4. Are there any alternative treatment options to surgery that I should consider?
  5. How many times have you performed this type of surgery and what is your success rate?
  6. Are there any specific complications that I should be aware of related to my age or overall health?
  7. Will I need assistance at home after surgery and for how long?
  8. What can I do to prepare for surgery and improve my overall health before the procedure?
  9. How will you monitor my progress after surgery and what signs should I watch for that may indicate a complication?
  10. Are there any support resources or organizations you recommend that can provide additional information and assistance throughout my treatment journey?

Reference

Authors: Johnston ME 2nd, Sussman JJ, Patel SH. Journal: Clin Geriatr Med. 2019 Feb;35(1):53-63. doi: 10.1016/j.cger.2018.08.006. PMID: 30390984