Rectal cancer, the third most common cancer worldwide, poses an increasing threat to the elderly population, defined as those over 70 years old. A recent retrospective study analysed 71 patients who underwent curative surgery for rectal cancer, comparing outcomes between an elderly group (EG) and a younger group (YG).
The study included 16 patients aged over 70 and 55 younger patients, with an average age of 57.1 years. More than half of the patients had comorbidities, and nearly three-quarters presented with advanced-stage rectal cancer. Most patients (87.3%) received neoadjuvant therapy, and laparoscopic surgery was performed in 86.6% of cases, though 12.7% required conversion to open surgery.
Postoperative complications were notably higher in the elderly group, with 50% experiencing morbidity compared to 21.8% in younger patients. Severe complications affected 12.5% of elderly patients, while anastomotic leakage rates were similar between groups. Crucially, postoperative mortality was significantly greater in the elderly, at 2.8% versus 0% in younger patients. Within 90 days post-surgery, six patients were readmitted, and the overall 90-day mortality was 4.2%.
These findings underscore the challenges of managing rectal cancer surgery in older adults, who face higher risks of complications and mortality. The study emphasises the need for personalised treatment plans that account for the elderly’s clinical conditions and functional status, addressing a gap in current guidelines and clinical trial evidence.
Reference
Achour Y et al. Retrospective analysis of curative rectal cancer surgery outcomes in elderly patients. 2025;15(1):19917.
