Evaluating cancer outcomes of outpatient colonoscopies in elderly patients older than 85 years of age.

Abstract

e15079 Background: With increasing life expectancy, the incidence of colorectal cancer increases. Currently, there are few studies on cancer outcomes of outpatient colonoscopy in patients older than 85 years of age. Methods: The database at Scripps was queried for all outpatient colonoscopies performed under moderate sedation between April 1, 2012 to March 31, 2017 on patients aged 85 years and older. Patient demographics, indication for procedure, and endoscopic findings were obtained. Variables including location and stage of tumor, subsequent treatments, and overall mortality were analyzed. Results: 322 outpatient colonoscopies were reviewed. Median age was 86 years. 53% were females. Screening colonoscopies accounted for 2.1% of procedures. 40 (12.4%) colon cancers were detected. 38 (95%) were adenocarcinomas and 2 (5%) were neuroendocrine tumors. 26 (65%) were right sided colon cancers. Among those diagnosed with cancer, anemia was the most common indication followed by positive fecal occult blood test (FOBT). 20 (50%) of these patients had a FOBT within the past year. Of those FOBTs, 18 (90%) were positive. Median age of patients with colon cancer was 88 years. 70% were females. 12 (30%) patients had never had a colonoscopy. 19 (47.5%) were diagnosed at an advanced stage (stage III or IV). 32 (80%) pursued surgery, 10 (25%) received chemotherapy, and 5 (12.5%) received radiation. 3 (7.5%) patients received supportive care only. 1-year mortality was 22.5% and 3-year mortality was 40% from the time of diagnosis. Conclusions: To date, this is the first study in the United States that examines cancer outcomes in an elderly population undergoing an outpatient colonoscopy. Overall, patients over the age of 85 with colorectal cancer have good outcomes that are comparable to that of the general population and colonoscopies should be considered for appropriate candidates.