Dtsch Arztebl Int
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A number of studies have revealed higher postoperative mortality after operations that were performed toward the end of the week. It is not yet known whether a day-of-the-week effect exists after visceral surgical procedures for cancer in Germany. ⋯ Elective surgery for carcinoma of the colon or pancreatic head is associated with slightly higher mortality if per - formed toward the beginning of the week. On the other hand, the day of the week has no effect on the outcome of surgery for rectal carcinoma.