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Surgery for centenarians (patients aged 100+) is feasible and generally safe. This study found that older patients survived operations and lived longer, indicating age alone shouldn't prevent necessary surgical care.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Surgery
- Surgical Outcomes in the Elderly
- Centenarian Health
Background:
- The aging global population leads to an increased number of elderly patients, including centenarians, requiring surgical interventions.
- Understanding surgical risks and outcomes in this unique demographic is crucial for modern healthcare.
Observation:
- A review of surgical cases at Massachusetts General Hospital between 1979-1983 identified six centenarian patients (100-104 years old).
- The study analyzed the surgical experiences and outcomes of these extremely elderly individuals.
Findings:
- All six centenarian patients survived their respective surgeries.
- One patient experienced complications, but overall survival was 100% in the short term.
- Patients lived one to two years post-operation, suggesting a positive impact of surgical intervention.
Implications:
- Chronological age alone should not be a barrier to elective or emergency surgery for centenarians.
- Meticulous attention to detail and careful patient selection are paramount for successful surgical outcomes in this population.
- These findings support the consideration of surgical treatment for centenarians when indicated.
Abstract:
Surgical problems do not end on a person's centennial, and as our overall population ages, physicians will see increasing numbers of these most senior citizens requiring surgery. Accordingly, the records of all century-old patients who have undergone surgery at the Massachusetts General Hospital in the years 1979 to 1983 were reviewed. Three men and three women ranged in age from 100 to 104 years at the time of surgery. One patient experienced complications, but all survived their operation and lived one to two years afterward. The centenarian has already been tested by life and found exceptionally fit. Selectivity and meticulous attention to detail remain paramount in treating these patients, but elective surgery should not be deferred, nor emergency surgery denied the centenarian on the basis of chronologic age.