Emergency Colorectal Surgery in Those with Cirrhosis: Outcomes and predictors of mortality

“Individuals with cirrhosis have higher post-operative morbidity and mortality following major abdominal surgery compared to those without cirrhosis. To quantify this added risk, observational studies and prediction models have been described; however, the majority were derived from historic cohorts and may not reflect the changing epidemiology of
liver disease or advances in both the medical management of cirrhosis and perioperative practices in this high-risk group.”

“In conclusion, we found that those with liver cirrhosis who required emergency colorectal surgery had a high risk of mortality and postoperative complications. We also found that increasing severity of liver disease (as determined using MELD-Na) was associated with worse outcomes, most notably a very high risk of mortality. Other complications, such as hepatic decompensation, intensive care unit admission, emergency department admission, and re-admission to hospital were common. This group continues to have poor outcomes despite modern medical, surgical, and perioperative care.”

Zhang, Lisa et al. “Emergency Colorectal Surgery in Those with Cirrhosis: A Population-based Study Assessing Practice Patterns, Outcomes and Predictors of Mortality.Journal of the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology vol. 7,2 160-168. 20 Oct. 2023 Free Full Text

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