OBJECTIVETo compare the outcomes of laparoscopic colorectal surgery in elderly (> or = 70 years) and younger(< 70 years) patients, and to evaluate the safety of laparoscopic colorectal surgery in elderly.

METHODSFrom Aug. 2007 to Dec. 2007, 25 patients with colorectal cancer undergone laparoscopic colorectal surgery were studied prospectively. Ten patients aged 70 years or older(Elder Group), and 15 patients less than 70 years(Younger Group). The parameters of perioperative hemodynamics, blood chemistry, and intraabdominal organs perfusion were recorded periodically during operation and compared between the two groups.

RESULTSElder group had a higher ASA degree(P<0.01). Mean age, height, weight, the classification of the disease, operative time, blood loss and complication were not significantly different between the two groups. The HCO(3) value and PaCO(2) value increased significantly intraoperatively, while the pH value decreased significantly. These parameters returned to basal line at the end of operation, with the decreased electrolytes, especially the kaliopenia and hypocalcemia. The CVP increased significantly at the beginning of operation and after fluid expansion, and decreased postoperatively. Gastric mucosal pH(pHi) decreased when the operation began. The partial pressure of gastric mucosa(PgCO(2)) increased significantly at the end of operation. Other parameters of hemodynamics including HR, CI, and SI were not significantly different during operation. The CVP of elder group was higher than that of younger group at 5 min after the beginning of the operation, while the MAP of elder group was lower than that of younger at 15 min after the end of the operation. Other parameters of hemodynamics including oxygenation, perfusion, and blood chemistry were not significantly different.

CONCLUSIONSFor laparoscopic colorectal surgery, no significant adverse response attributes to elderly patients. The compensation capacity of the elderly is lower. With the reasonable anesthesia administration, the adverse response can be controlled effectively.