The effect of comprehensive geriatric assessment on treatment decisions, supportive care received, and postoperative outcomes in older adults with cancer undergoing surgery

Surgery is an essential part of cancer treatment, particularly for localised solid tumours. Geriatric assessments (GA) with tailored interventions or comprehensive GA (CGA) can identify frailty factors and needs of older adults with cancer, assisting treatment decisions and care strategies to reduce postoperative complications. This systematic review summarises the effects of GA/CGA compared to usual care for older adults with cancer intended for surgery: their impact on treatment decisions, supportive care interventions, postoperative complications, survival, and health-related quality of life.

Citation:
Disalvo D, Garcia MV, Soo WK, ……… Amgarth-Duff I, Agar M. The effect of comprehensive geriatric assessment on treatment decisions, supportive care received, and postoperative outcomes in older adults with cancer undergoing surgery: A systematic review. Journal of Geriatric Oncology. 2025;16(3):102197.

Keywords:
Comprehensive geriatric assessment; Delirium; Frailty; Postoperative complications; Surgery

Abstract:
Surgery is an essential part of cancer treatment, particularly for localised solid tumours. Geriatric assessments (GA) with tailored interventions or comprehensive GA (CGA) can identify frailty factors and needs of older adults with cancer, assisting treatment decisions and care strategies to reduce postoperative complications. This systematic review summarises the effects of GA/CGA compared to usual care for older adults with cancer intended for surgery: their impact on treatment decisions, supportive care interventions, postoperative complications, survival, and health-related quality of life.