Colorectal cancer in older adults: Surgical issues

Abstract

This chapter centers on what surgeons, patients, and hospital administrations want and need to know about surgical care for colorectal cancer in the older patients. From all angles, it is clear that older patients are unique and their colorectal cancer care should be individualized and approached in a multidisciplinary fashion. Evaluation of patient fitness to undergo surgery should be undertaken in the elective and emergent settings. If patients are deemed fit for treatment, they should be offered the appropriate treatment, regardless of their age. This includes proceeding with surgery and/or chemotherapy and utilizing minimally invasive techniques, when appropriate. In addition, quality of life should be a priority in the care of older patients and patient reported outcomes should be assessed and reported.