ABSTRACT
Presentations of surgical conditions in older patients are frequently vague, sometimes resulting in patients erroneously being admitted initially to medical wards. Patients with poorer functional status are more likely to develop multidrug-resistant surgical wound infections. In non-emergency surgery it is possible to detect, optimise the management of co-morbid conditions prior to operation to reduce the risk of complications. Surgery has a higher risk for those with co-morbidities and those requiring emergency procedures. The post-operative mortality rate for non-cardiac surgery in patients aged over 80 years is around 5%, with a morbidity rate around 25%. Post-operative cognitive decline is a reported subacute to chronic hazard of surgery that differs from delirium, possibly induced by perioperative cerebral hypoxia. Surgical outcomes are likely to be improved when there is a comprehensive preoperative evaluation, optimal anaesthesia and surgical technique, high-quality post-operative care, the early resumption of mobility and normal diet.
