International journal of colorectal disease
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Int J Colorectal Dis · Jul 2013
Curative colorectal resections in patients aged 80 years and older: clinical characteristics, morbidity, mortality and risk factors.
The management of colorectal cancer in the elderly presents unique challenges. The objective of this study was to determine outcomes following curative colorectal resection in patients aged 80 years and older. ⋯ The highest mortality rates following colorectal surgery in the elderly are in the early postoperative period, especially for emergency operations and patients with significant comorbidities. However, the 1-year survival following elective curative resection for colorectal cancer approaches 65 %. ASA score and modality of the operation (elective vs. emergency) impacted on postoperative mortality and morbidity and could be used to select patients with more favourable outcomes.
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Int J Colorectal Dis · Jul 2013
Little consensus in either definition or diagnosis of a lower gastro-intestinal anastomotic leak amongst colorectal surgeons.
The purposes of this study were to assess the working definition of a colorectal anastomotic leak among colorectal surgeons and to survey the current approach to investigation and management of a patient with a suspected anastomotic leak. ⋯ There is still significant heterogeneity between surgeons in what they define as an anastomotic leak. Most surgeons valued clinical examination as the most sensitive initial tool for leak detection; however, radiology has a major role in the confirmation of clinical leaks in colorectal patients. There is an increasing need to be able to classify and grade anastomotic leaks, both to improve the care of patients and for audit purposes.