Preoperative Vertebral Fracture: A Prognostic Factor in Stage I-III Colorectal Cancer

Teppei Kamada ^1,2, Kenei Furukawa ², Junji Takahashi ^3,2

⁰Department of Surgery, International University of Health and Welfare Hospital, Nasushiobara, Japan; teppei0911show@yahoo.co.jp.

Anticancer Research +

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July 26, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Preoperative vertebral fractures (VFs) in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients predict poorer survival. Patients with VFs had significantly lower disease-free and overall survival rates post-surgery.

Area Of Science

Oncology
Radiology
Gerontology

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant global health concern.
Vertebral fractures (VFs) are common in older adults and can impact health outcomes.
The prognostic significance of VFs in CRC patients remains under investigation.

Purpose Of The Study

To investigate the prognostic impact of preoperative vertebral fractures (VFs) on the survival of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC).

Main Methods

A cohort of 299 patients with stage I-III CRC undergoing elective surgery was analyzed.
Patients were categorized into VF (n=94) and non-VF (n=205) groups based on preoperative CT imaging (Th11-L5).
Disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were compared between groups.

Main Results

Patients with VFs exhibited significantly lower 5-year DFS and OS rates compared to those without VFs (p<0.001).
Independent predictors for worse DFS and OS included VFs, osteopenia, elevated CA19-9, advanced tumor stage (T3/T4), and stage III CRC.
VFs were a more potent prognostic factor than osteopenia for DFS and OS in early-stage (I+II) CRC.

Conclusions

Preoperative vertebral fractures are associated with diminished disease-free and overall survival in patients undergoing colorectal cancer resection.
VFs represent a critical, independent prognostic indicator in CRC survival.
Early identification and management of VFs may be crucial for improving CRC patient outcomes.

Keywords:

Vertebral fracture colorectal cancer osteopenia survival analysis