An Observational Study On Spectrum of Surgical Diseases in Geriatric Population with Special Reference to Outcome

Background: The geriatric population is at increased risk of surgical diseases and adverse postoperative outcomes due to age-related physiological changes, multiple comorbidities, and reduced functional reserve. Understanding the spectrum of surgical conditions and factors affecting outcomes is essential for improving perioperative care and reducing morbidity and mortality. The aim is to assess the spectrum of surgical diseases in the geriatric population and evaluate their clinical presentation, treatment approaches, and postoperative outcomes, with special reference to morbidity and mortality. Material and Methods: This was a hospital-based observational study conducted in the Inpatient Department (IPD) of Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital over a period of one year (01/06/2023 to 01/06/2024). The study population comprised individuals aged >60 years who fulfilled the predefined selection criteria and were admitted to the surgical IPD with any surgical condition. A total of 94 patients were included in the study. Results: Among 94 patients, the mean age was 68.98 ± 7.12 years, with males predominating (54.3%). Non-malignant diseases were more common (74.5%), and 67.0% had comorbidities, mainly T2DM. Surgical management was performed in 84.0% of patients. Grade 4 postoperative pain was most frequent (29.5%), while major and minor complications were absent in 71.8% and 50.0%, respectively. The mean hospital stay was 11.35 ± 5.88 days, and 66.7% returned to daily activities within 1–4 days. Malignancy, mortality, and trauma were present in 21, 7, and 5 patients, respectively. Conclusion: Geriatric patients represent a high-risk surgical population with a broad spectrum of surgical diseases and increased vulnerability to postoperative complications. Early diagnosis, appropriate selection of treatment modality, comprehensive preoperative assessment, optimization of comorbidities, and careful postoperative monitoring are essential to improve surgical outcomes and reduce morbidity and mortality in elderly patients.

Keywords: Geriatric population, Elderly, Surgical diseases, Surgical outcomes, Postoperative complications, Morbidity, Mortality, Comorbidities, Geriatric surgery, Observational study.