Should specialized oncogeriatric surgeons operate older unfit cancer patients?

Eur J Surg Oncol. 2010 Sep:36 Suppl 1:S18-22. doi: 10.1016/j.ejso.2010.06.018. Epub 2010 Jul 1.

Abstract

This rapidly expanding cancer patient group benefits of specialist care. The use of frailty assessment tools is mandatory in clinical practice and in medical reporting. A fair risk-benefits balance should be kept in mind at all times; patients' requests and expectations should be prioritised. Aggressive surgical treatment should not be neglected in principle, but alterative management should be considered at all times.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Decision Making
  • Frail Elderly
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Neoplasms / therapy
  • Preoperative Care
  • Risk Assessment
  • Specialties, Surgical
  • Treatment Outcome