Measuring Quality in Colorectal Cancer Surgery in Low- and Middle-income Countries

Measuring Quality in Colorectal Cancer Surgery in Low- and Middle-income Countries: the Clavien-Dindo Classification in a Sri Lankan Cohort

To test the applicability of the Clavien-Dindo Classification (CDC) in an LMIC setting and to compare the prevalence and severity of complications in patients <60 and ≥60 years of age a retrospective medical records review is used.

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is increasing in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMIC) as part of the ongoing epidemiological transition. Surgery is the main treatment and the global health agenda is increasingly putting focus on improving the safety and quality of surgical care in low-resource settings. The current systems for measuring surgical quality are mainly customized for high-income countries.

Aim: To test the applicability of the Clavien-Dindo Classification (CDC) in an LMIC setting. Additionally, to compare the prevalence and severity of complications in patients <60 and ≥60 years of age.

Material and methods: Retrospective medical records review for postoperative complications and severity grading using the CDC.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients who has gone through colorectal cancer resection.
• Surgery performed at Colombo South Teaching Hospital in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Reason for resection other than colorectal cancer.