535 ELF 2: DEFINING THE DENOMINATOR ELF STUDY GROUP

Abstract

Abstract Introduction The collaborative UK Emergency Laparotomy and Frailty (ELF) study was one of the first to investigate the older adult population undergoing emergency surgery. Despite accounting for almost half of emergency laparotomies and many considered high-risk, there remains a paucity of research in this population. One undefined area is the older patient who presents with acute abdominal pathology treatable by laparotomy but who do not undergo surgery. Aims The primary aim is to estimate the 90-day mortality in older patients presenting with acute abdominal pathology potentially treatable by emergency laparotomy who do not undergo surgery (NoLap). The secondary aims are characterisation of this group, including frailty and sarcopenia with comparison to those older adults that have undergone emergency laparotomy (NELA and ELLSA). In addition, the decision-making process will be explored. Method Multicentre prospective cohort study via established research collaboratives (Welsh Barbers, SSRG, OPSOC). ELF 2 requires at least 47 centres, recruiting 700 patients for 3 months prospective data collection via REDCap of NoLap patients with the same NELA inclusion/exclusion criteria. This data will be compared with a matched cohort from NELA and ELLSA. ELF2 data collection includes demographics, co-morbidities, frailty and sarcopenia. Each patient will be followed up for 90-day and 1-year mortality. Heuristics behind the decision will be analysed. Discussion This trainee led collaborative project aims to improve understanding of the older adult population being considered for emergency laparotomy. With the ageing population being the dominant health users of the future, defining the denominator is essential for shared decision-making.