Silent Threat: Impact of Preoperative Albumin Levels on Outcomes in Geriatric Cancer Surgery

Silent Threat: How Do Preoperative Albumin Levels Affect Outcomes in Geriatric Cancer Surgery

This retrospective, single-center study aims to evaluate the impact of preoperative albumin levels on postoperative outcomes in geriatric patients (aged 65 and above) undergoing cancer surgery. The study will compare postoperative complication rates, length of hospital stay, and intensive care needs between patients with hypoalbuminemia and those with normal albumin levels.

Malnutrition is a significant risk factor for postoperative complications in elderly cancer patients. Preoperative serum albumin is a key biomarker reflecting nutritional and inflammatory status. This study will retrospectively review the medical records of 330 geriatric patients (≥65 years) who underwent cancer surgery at Dr. Abdurrahman Yurtaslan Ankara Oncology Training and Research Hospital. Patients will be grouped according to preoperative albumin levels: Group 1 (<3.5 g/dL, hypoalbuminemia) and Group 2 (≥3.5 g/dL, normal). The primary aim is to compare postoperative complication rates, length of hospital stay, and intensive care requirements between these groups. The findings are expected to clarify the prognostic value of albumin and support individualized perioperative management in geriatric cancer surgery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 65 years or older
• Diagnosed with cancer and underwent cancer surgery
• Preoperative albumin level recorded before surgery

Exclusion Criteria:

• Preoperative sepsis, severe infection, or active inflammatory disease
• Emergency or palliative surgery
• Missing preoperative albumin value
• Incomplete medical records or follow-up data