Outcome of surgical resection for hilar cholangiocarcinoma in elderly patients.

Background/aims: The aim of the present study was to assess the safety and outcome of surgical resection for hilar cholangiocarcinoma in the elderly.

Methodology: Thirty-one patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma were divided into two groups: Group 1 (n=8), less than 65, and; Group 2 (n=23), 65 years of age and older. Patient characteristics, peri-operative data, 5-year survival rates and 5-year disease-free survival rates were compared between the two groups.

Results: There were no differences in patient characteristics except that the AST level at admission was higher in Group 2 than in Group 1. There were no differences in peri-operative data. Postoperative morbidity rates in Groups 1 and 2 were 12.5% and 33.3%, respectively (p=0.23). Median periods of postoperative hospitalization in Groups 1 and 2 were 32.5 days and 66 days, respectively (p=0.03). Overall 5-year survival rates in Groups 1 and 2 were 37.5% and 44.7%, respectively (p=0.57), and the respective 5-year disease-free survival rates were 25.0% and 28.6% (p= 0.37).

Conclusions: Although surgical resection for hilar cholangiocarcinoma in the elderly is associated with relatively high morbidity rate and longer hospital stay, it can be performed safely as in the younger, by employing accurate peri-operative management.