Results of implementing a co-management care model between general surgery and geriatrics for patients aged 80 years or older who underwent abdominal surgery

Introduction: In recent years, collaborative care models between geriatrics and surgery—known as geriatric co-management programs—have been developed. These programs focus on a comprehensive assessment of older patients and the implementation of individualized strategies to optimize their clinical status before, during, and after surgery. Available evidence suggests that geriatric co-management can significantly reduce length of hospital stay, rates of postoperative complications, in-hospital mortality, and readmissions. However, most of this evidence comes from studies conducted in the context of orthopedic surgery, particularly in patients with hip fractures. In contrast, evidence regarding the impact of such programs on gastrointestinal or abdominal surgeries remains limited and heterogeneous.
Objective: To evaluate the impact of implementing a co-management care model between general surgery and geriatrics on surgical outcomes in patients aged ≥80 years undergoing abdominal surgery at Méderi between May 2023 and May 2025.
Methodology: Quasi-experimental design using interrupted time series analysis. The eligible population will consist of adults aged 80 years and older who undergo abdominal surgery, both in the 12 months prior to and in the 12 months following the implementation of the comprehensive geriatric care protocol.
Methodology: Quasi-experimental design using interrupted time series analysis. The eligible population will consist of adults over 80 years of age who undergo abdominal surgery, both in the 12 months prior to and in the 12 months following the implementation of the comprehensive geriatric care protocol. The impact will be evaluated using surgical outcomes such as major complications, mortality, length of hospital stay, and readmissions.
Expected results: We expect to obtain information that will allow us to optimize the management of geriatric patients undergoing abdominal surgery and identify opportunities for improvement in the institutional care model.

Geriatría; cirugía

Geriatrics; surgery