Does frailty predict postoperative outcomes in geriatric patients receiving surgery for colorectal cancer? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background Surgery remains the mainstay of colorectal cancer (CRC) and substantially reduces cancer-related morbidity and mortality. Preoperative assessment for frailty in geriatric patients is critically important in risk stratification and clinical decision-making. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to quantitatively summarise the effect of frailty on postoperative outcomes in geriatric patients receiving surgery for CRC. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, Cochrane and EMBASE from inception to 30 April 2020. Fully published articles reporting risk estimate(s) of frailty on postoperative complication(s), readmission and/ or mortality in patients aged ≥65 years who received surgery for CRC were eligible for qualitative and quantitative analyses. Results Across 10 articles of 9 unique studies (n = 69332) that were eventually included in the systematic review and meta-analysis, overall prevalence of frailty was 23.0% (95% CI: 11–43%, I 2 = 100%). Odds ratios (ORs) on overall and severe postoperative complications were respectively increased by 2.36- (95% CI: 1.66–3.35, P <0.01; I 2 = 12%) and 2.35-fold (95% CI: 1.30–4.27, P <0.01; I 2 = 72%) in frail patients compared to non-frail counterparts. On pooled analysis, frailty was significantly associated with an increased risk of postoperative readmission (OR:1.91; 95% CI: 1.35–2.70, P <0.01; I 2 = 6%). Whilst a significantly higher risk of frailty on mortality during 12 months after CRC surgery was observed (OR: 5.52; 95% CI:4.40–6.92, P <0.01; I 2 = 89%), the summary OR on 30-day/ inpatient mortality crossed the null line (OR: 1.65; 95% CI: 0.56–4.93, P = 0.37; I 2 = 55%). Funnel plot and Duval-Tweedie’s trim and fill test did not reveal significant publication bias. Conclusions In the studies reviewed, frailty appeared to be associated with increased risks for postoperative complications, readmission and mortality during 12 months in patients aged ≥65 years who received surgery for CRC. Nevertheless, no significant association between frailty and 30-day/ inpatient postoperative mortality was observed.