Surgical outcomes and factors associated with postoperative complications of colorectal cancer in a Colombian Caribbean population: Results from a regional referral hospital

Abstract

Introduction: Colorectal cancer is the most common malignant neoplasm of the gastrointestinal tract. Its incidence and mortality vary markedly at a global level. Assessing the epidemiological behavior of this condition allows reevaluating diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic options, based on new findings. In Colombia, few studies have correlated variables associated with surgical and oncological outcomes in this type of cancer. Then, the aim of this study was to evaluate the surgical outcomes and factors associated with postoperative complications of colorectal cancer in a Colombian Caribbean Population. Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional study, including patients with a histopathological diagnosis of colorectal cancer who underwent open or laparoscopic surgery, during a period of two years (2018–2020), from a regional referral hospital. Clinical history variables were collected. Frequencies and prevalence ratios were calculated. Results: A total of 84 patients were finally included. Adenocarcinoma of non-special type with advanced clinical stages was the most prevalent (72.6%). Rectal neoplasia (45.2%) was the most frequent anatomical subsite, followed by proximal colon (p = 0.026). The anatomical subsite of the neoplasm, intraoperative complication (PR 1.38; 95% CI, 1.21–1.59, p = 0.001) and intensive care stay (PR 1.062; 95% CI, 1.01–1.12, p = 0.048) were associated with postoperative outcome. Conclusions: The anatomical subsite of the neoplasm location, the presence of intraoperative complications and the stay in intensive care may be associated with the surgical and oncological outcome of individuals with colon cancer from the Colombian Caribbean region.