Updates in surgical oncology for elderly patients.
Elderly patients affected by solid tumours are frequently encountered on the surgical ward. Prejudice regarding operative risks and long term outcomes may alter their surgical management. Large series of elderly cancer subjects have been analysed and conclusive data are now available, to better tailor their management. Specific epidemiological data are presented in this review, screening programs critically considered, treatment procedures discussed, and the effectiveness of follow-up protocols is analysed together with cost effectiveness issues. Quality of life issues should not be neglected, and a continuous educational endeavour targeted at specialists and general practitioners is desirable.
Audisio
Riccardo A
RA
Department of General Surgery, Whiston Hospital, University of Liverpool, Prescot, Merseyside L35 5DR, UK. raudisio@doctors.org.uk
Zbar
Andrew P
AP
D000368:Aged; D004496:Education, Continuing; D006299:Health Services for the Aged / Q000592:standards / Q000639:trends; D006801:Humans; D008495:Medical Oncology / Q000379:methods / Q000639:trends*; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000601:surgery*; D018570:Risk Assessment