For the study, researchers examined 125 patients at The University of Chicago Thoracic Surgery Clinic who were considered candidates for major thoracic surgery. The average age of study participants was 70. Patients were assessed for frailty in the categories of grip strength, slow gait, unintentional weight loss, self-reported exhaustion and low self-reported physical activity. Participants were deemed frail if they displayed three to five frailty characteristics.
Assessment revealed 31 percent of participants were not frail, 57 percent showed signs of developing frailty and 12 percent were frail.
Frailty and signs of developing frailty have previously been identified as contributing to the risk of postoperative complications.
“This study indicated that a large number of patients who are candidates for major surgery have important risk factors related to frailty,” said Mark K. Ferguson, MD, a professor of surgery with University of Chicago Medicine. “Knowing what these factors are can help physicians, patients, and the patients’ families better understand the risks and may motivate them to participate in activities that reduce their risks.”
More articles on quality:
Brigham and Women’s performs double arm transplant on retired marine
Surging overdose deaths fuel organ donations
AHA’s Hospitals in Pursuit of Excellence initiative & The Joint Commission release patient falls prevention guide
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.