3513 Satisfaction with shared decision making, and decision regret in older adults undergoing elective colorectal cancer surgery

Abstract Introduction Involvement of Geriatricians in peri-operative assessment acknowledges the altered physiology of frail patients and helps to evaluate realistic outcomes as part of patient-centred shared decision making. This is with the aim of addressing modifiable risk factors, preventing complications, preparing for a realistic recovery and ensuring that treatment options are aligned to what is important to the patient. There is data suggesting improved survival following geriatric peri-operative assessment but little analysis from the patient’s perspective; their thoughts about the shared decision-making process, regrets about having surgery and the impact it has had on their quality of life. This study aims to identify success of our peri-operative clinic based on patient-centred parameters. Methods We identified 69 patients seen in our joint Anaesthestic and Geriatrician peri-operative assessment clinic before elective colorectal surgery. These patients were over the age of 65, had multiple co-morbidities and had their surgery between 2022–2024. Participants answered a standardised ‘Shared Decision-Making Questionnaire’ (SDM-Q-9) and ‘Decision Regret Scale’ over the phone. Results 45 patients were able to answer our questionnaires. 9 patients had died, 14 did not answer or declined and 1 was incorrectly identified. Ages ranged from 69 to 91, with the majority undergoing laparoscopic hemicolectomies. 100% of respondents felt the team helped them understand information regarding the operation, and 93% felt they made the decision jointly with the doctor. Though 6% felt that the operation did them harm, 100% agreed that it was the right decision and would go for the same choice if they chose again. Conclusion Our study suggests that patients are very satisfied after having undergone surgery and had realistic expectations and goals from combined pre-operative assessment. The shared decision-making analysis is positive and demonstrates the importance of stressing ‘not having surgery’ as an option to patients. The subjective and retrospective nature of the study may limit results.