Invasive procedures in the elderly after stage IV cancer diagnosis

摘要: Abstract Background Invasive procedures are resource intense and may be associated with substantial morbidity. These harms must carefully balanced the benefits gained in life expectancy quality of life. Prior research has demonstrated an increasing aggressiveness care cancer patients at end-of-life. To better characterize surgical this setting, we sought to examine trends use invasive diagnosed metastatic on presentation. Materials methods Using Surveillance Epidemiology End Results -Medicare data, identified procedure claims from 1994–2009 for incident stage IV breast, colorectal, lung, prostate 1995–2006. We grouped into surgically relevant categories, using adaptation Clinical Classifications Software, measured utilization relative changes over time. Of 2002–2006, 96% underwent a during course their including 63% after diagnostic period, 25% last month Between 1996 2006, minimal change was observed period (+1.5%). However, there were significant increases continuing (+20.7%) (+21.5%). Procedures consistent primary tumor resection decreased, whereas those probable palliative intent unrelated increased. Conclusions Nearly all who present undergo procedures. Although overall is increasing, specific types indicate that it appropriate, enhancing vulnerable population.