The impact of the type and severity of postoperative complications on long-term outcomes following surgery for colorectal cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
BACKGROUND
This systematic review investigated the impact of complications by type (infective vs. non-infective) and severity (using the Clavien Dindo scale) on long-term outcome following surgery for colorectal cancer.


METHODS
A systematic review was performed using appropriate keywords. Meta-analysis using a random effects model was performed.


RESULTS
14 studies were included with a total 18,611 patients. Infective complications had a significant impact on disease free (HR 1.41, 95%CI 1.08-1.83, p=0.01) and overall survival (1.37 95%CI 1.22-1.55, p<0.001). Non-infective complications had no significant impact on either disease free (HR 1.21, 95%CI 0.97-1.52, p=0.09) or overall survival (HR 1.35, 95%CI 0.92-1.97, p=0.12). Complication severity had a significant impact on both disease free (HR 1.41, 95%CI 1.18-1.68, p<0.001) and overall survival (HR 1.45, 95%CI 1.25-1.69, p<0.001).


CONCLUSIONS
Both type and severity of postoperative complications have an impact on long-term survival following surgery for colorectal cancer.
Academic Unit of Surgery, R2.06, School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, New Lister Building, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, 10-16 Alexandra Parade, Glasgow G31 2ER, United Kingdom. Electronic address: s.mcsorley@doctors.org.uk.
Stephen T
ST
McSorley
Academic Unit of Surgery, R2.06, School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, New Lister Building, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, 10-16 Alexandra Parade, Glasgow G31 2ER, United Kingdom.
Paul G
PG
Horgan
Academic Unit of Surgery, R2.06, School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, New Lister Building, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, 10-16 Alexandra Parade, Glasgow G31 2ER, United Kingdom.
Donald C
DC
McMillan
D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000401:mortality / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000401:mortality
Colorectal cancer; Morbidity; Postoperative complications; Surgery; Survival