Influence of Anesthetic Agents and the Perioperative Period on Cancer Recurrence and Metastasis

Cancer remains a leading cause of death worldwide, with its burden expected to increase, particularly in aging populations. The perioperative period and anesthetic techniques used during cancer surgeries are increasingly recognized as factors that may influence cancer recurrence and metastasis. This study investigates the impact of anesthetic agents and perioperative management on cancer outcomes in Iraqi patients. This study involved 68 Iraqi patients (42 males and 26 females) with various types of cancer, including prostate, colorectal, bladder, lung, cervical, breast, and ovarian cancers. The patients underwent surgery under general anesthesia, with follow-up assessments focusing on cancer recurrence, metastasis, and mortality rates. Serum levels of Cancer Antigen 15-3 (CA15-3) were measured using the VIDAS® immunoassay technique. Data were statistically analyzed using SPSS version 24, with results expressed as mean, standard deviation, and p-values. The study found a higher mortality rate in male patients (54%) compared to females (46%), with survival rates significantly higher in females. Cancer recurrence was observed in 46% of males and 43% of females. Serum levels of CA15-3 were significantly elevated in both male (77.97±2.44 kU/l) and female (96.33±3.66 kU/l) patients, indicating its potential as a diagnostic marker for cancer recurrence and metastasis. The results suggest that anesthetic agents, through their direct and indirect effects on tumor cells and the immune system, may influence cancer progression and patient outcomes. This study highlights the importance of considering anesthetic techniques and perioperative management in cancer surgeries to minimize the risk of recurrence and metastasis. The findings suggest that elevated CA15-3 levels could serve as a valuable biomarker for monitoring cancer recurrence. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms by which anesthetic agents and perioperative factors contribute to cancer outcomes, potentially leading to improved perioperative protocols for cancer patients.