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[Surgical risk in patients over 70]
Schweizerische Medizinische Wochenschrift
|March 7, 1981
Summary
Surgery in elderly patients (70+) saw increased frequency and decreased mortality rates by 1979. Urgent surgeries posed significantly higher risks than elective procedures, highlighting the need for careful intervention planning.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Surgery
- Surgical Outcomes
- Patient Demographics
Context:
- Analysis of 501 surgical procedures performed in 1979 on 390 patients aged 70 years and older.
- Comparison of surgical frequency and mortality rates between 1979 and 1956/57 in the elderly population.
Purpose:
- To report surgical activity and outcomes in elderly patients (70+) in 1979.
- To assess trends in surgical frequency and mortality for this demographic over time.
- To evaluate the impact of urgency on surgical outcomes in geriatric patients.
Summary:
- In 1979, 501 surgeries were performed on 390 patients aged 70+, with a 5.4% operative mortality rate.
- Surgical frequency in this age group increased from 8.3% (1956/57) to 11% (1979).
- Mortality for urgent surgeries (15%) was five times higher than for elective procedures (2.6%).
Impact:
- Demonstrates a significant decrease in mortality rates for elderly surgical patients despite increased procedure frequency.
- Underscores the elevated risk associated with urgent surgeries in geriatric populations.
- Suggests a preference for elective surgical interventions in elderly patients to minimize mortality risk.