[On biliary surgery in old age: indications, risk groups, results (author's transl)]

Report on 179 operations on the biliary tract of patients over 70 years old. The significance of a preparation specific to the case, general anaesthesia and a quick technique of operation avoiding additional stress is emphasized. Special attention is devoted to postoperative treatment. The main complications in old age patients are still caused by postoperative azotemia due to the hepatorenal syndrome. The concentration of geriatric surgery at decentralized service units is suggested.