A qualitative analysis of the experiences of frail older adults treated and recovering from colorectal cancer surgery

Abstract Introduction It is established that frail elderly patients suffer increased risks of post-operative mortality and morbidity, as well as impaired motility and increased need of support in activities of daily life (ADLs), following colorectal cancer surgery. However, less is known on how this group experience the treatment and how they recover and adapt afterwards. Method This is a qualitative study, based on semi-structured interviews, analysed through content analysis. Interviews were conducted 6-18 month after surgery. Participants were recruited from the control group of the study “Effect of comprehensive geriatric assessment for frail elderly patients operated for colorectal cancer – the colorectal cancer frailty study”. All eligible patients were considered frail according to the Clinical Frailty Scale-9 (CFS-9), aged ≥ 65 and have gone through resection surgery for colon- or rectal cancer. The interviews focus on the participants’ experiences during and after the process and on what impact the treatment has had on ADLs. Result At present, nine interviews have been conducted, transcribed and preliminary analysed. This has rendered the theme “resection surgery is the only way to survive”. There seem to be a strong will to proceed with surgery, even in the presence of complicating factors such as multimorbidity and functional dependence. Further recruitment and interviews will be made until no new perspectives appear. Discussion The results from this study may contribute to a deeper understanding of what is important for frail elderly patients in colorectal cancer care, a deeper knowledge of this could aid surgeons in decision making and when advising these patients.