Surgical treatment and perioperative period management for elderly lung cancer patients / 中国癌症杂志

ABSTRACT

Purpose:To explore the problems in the treatment of elderly patients suffering from lung cancer. Methods:58 cases of elderly patients aged over 70 who received operation for lung cancer during Oct. 1997 to Aug. 2002 were analyzed retrospectively.Results:56 cases underwent resections (resection rate 96.6%), of which 48 cases (82.8%) had radical resection and 8 cases (13.8%) palliative resection.2 cases (3.4%) had exploratory surgery. Postoperative complications were found in 50 cases (86.2%), of which 2 cases died during perioperation period(mortality rate 3.4%). Conclusions:Old age is not the major determining factor when considering surgical operation as the treatment for lung cancer patients. In order to enhance resection rates especially radical resection rate and survival rate, to diminish postoperative complications and mortality, and thus to improve the quality of life for the elderly lung cancer patients, a series of measures must be taken. First, diagnosis and treatment of the associated condition must be emphasized. Second, full preoperative preparations with appropriate choice of the time and procedure for operation. Finally, intensive monitoring during the preoperative period and prevention and treatment of postoperative complications are also important factors to be considered.