Frailty as a predictor of outcomes in patients undergoing head and neck cancer surgery

Loss of Independence in Older Adults With Operable Oral Cavity Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

To ascertain the effect of curative-intent surgery on loss of independence (LOI) in patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective observational study of patients diagnosed from 2014 to 2021.

SETTING

Single tertiary care academic center. Patients having undergone curative-intent surgical treatment for OCSCC from 2014 to 2021 in the cancer registry.

METHODS

LOI as the primary outcome was measured based on a combination of decrease in activities of daily living (ADLs) and/or decline in mobility during treatment. Descriptive statistics were used to compare baseline demographics and multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association between LOI and perioperative variables of interest.

RESULTS

Of the 180 patients included in this study, 139 (79%) were fully independent in ADLs/instrumental ADLs prior to surgery. The average age of the cohort was 74 with 49% males. Thirty-seven (21%) experienced a decline in mobility or increased care needs following surgery, and 18 (10%) experienced an independent decline in functional status. Increasing age, osseous flap reconstruction, high Charlson Comorbidity Index, and major postoperative adverse events were associated with LOI. Fifty-five percent of patients with LOI had recovered to baseline within 7 months from surgery. LOI was associated with poor treatment tolerance (odds ratio: 4.77, 95% confidence interval: 1.87-12.2) while adjusting for multiple confounders.

CONCLUSION

LOI is common in older adults undergoing curative-intent surgery for OCSCC and associated with poor treatment tolerance.

Frailty and Increased Levels of Symptom Burden Can Predict the Presence of Each Other in HNSCC Patients

Frailty is an important risk factor for adverse events (AEs), especially in elderly patients. Therefore, assessing frailty before therapy is recommended. In head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients, frailty is prognostic for severe postoperative complications and declining quality of life (QoL) after HNSCC treatment. Thus, assessment of frailty may help to identify individuals at risk for AE caused by oncologic therapy. We investigated the relationship between frailty and symptom burden to better understand their interaction and impact on HNSCC patients. In this prospectively designed cross-sectional study, the presence of frailty and symptom burden was assessed by using the Geriatric 8 (G8) and Minimal Documentation System (MIDOS2) questionnaires. A total of 59 consecutively accrued patients with a first diagnosis of HNSCC before therapy were evaluated. Patients were considered frail at a total G8 score ≤ 14. The MIDOS2 symptom burden score was considered pathological with a total score ≥ 4 or any severe symptom (=3). Statistical correlations were analyzed using Spearman and Pearson correlation. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves were used to analyze the potential of predicting frailty and MIDOS2. p-values < 0.05 were considered significant. A total of 41 patients (69.5%) were considered frail, and 27 patients (45.8%) had increased symptom burden. "Tiredness" was the most common (overall rate 57.8%) and "Pain" was the most often stated "severe" symptom (5 patients, 8.5%). G8 and MIDOS2 correlated significantly (ρ = -0.487, p < 0.001; r = -0.423, p < 0.001). Frailty can be predicted by MIDOS2 symptom score (AUC = 0.808, 95% CI 0.698-0.917, p < 0.001). Vice versa, the G8 score can predict pathological symptom burden according to MIDOS2 (AUC = 0.750, 95% CI 0.622-0.878, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The strong link between frailty and increased symptom burden assessed by G8 or MIDOS2 indicates a coherence of both risk factors in HNSCC patients. Considering at least one of both scores might improve the identification of individuals at risk and achieve higher QoL and reduced complication rates by decision making for appropriate therapy regimens.

Regional outcome disparities in German head and neck cancer patients: Shorter survival in Eastern Germany

INTRODUCTION

Demographics are important prognostic factors in malignant diseases. A nationwide analysis concerning the prognostic impact of demographics in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients (HNCP) has not been performed previously.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of data from the Center for Cancer Registry Data (ZfKD) and the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) between 2002 and 2017 was performed. A total of 212'920 HNCP were included. Incidence, tumor stage, age development, sex distribution, age-, residence-, and diagnosis-time-specific survival were examined.

RESULTS

Mean age of HNCP increased more rapidly than in the general population (slope coefficient: 0.29 vs. 0.20; p < 0.0001). Higher age and male sex were associated with a worse prognosis. Whereas overall survival (OS) increased from the early to the later observation period for HNCP <70 years, no OS improvement for HNCP >70 years was found. Furthermore, an OS disadvantage was observed for East Germany compared to West Germany (median 47 vs. 60 months; p < 0.0001). This disparity was associated with a disproportionately high ratio of men in East Germany (men/women: 4.4 vs. 3.1; p < 0.0001) and a lower mean age (61 vs. 63 years; p < 0.0001). In addition to stage, age and sex, residence in East Germany were confirmed as an independent factor for OS in a multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

Finally, three decades after the German reunion, a survival disadvantage for patients in East Germany still exists. This discrepancy may be a result of socioeconomic disparities.

A nationwide analysis of salvage surgery for laryngeal cancer in the elderly

BACKGROUND

We aim to describe outcomes of elderly patients undergoing salvage surgery for laryngeal cancer and to characterize the interplay of age with various other factors in this growing population.

METHODS

Using the National Cancer Database, we identified cases of salvage laryngectomy in patients who failed chemoradiation. An age cutoff of 70 years was used to separate subjects into two groups. Various factors were compared.

RESULTS

Of the 825 patients included, 166 (20.1%) were elderly. Elderly patients had worse overall survival (p = 0.001), higher 30-day and 90-day mortality (p = 0.006, p < 0.001), and a longer length of stay (LOS) (p = 0.015). LOS over 1 week was associated with worse survival (p = 0.032).

CONCLUSION

Elderly patients had worse overall perioperative survival than their younger counterparts. LOS and 30-day readmissions were associated with higher risk of mortality in this group. We provide a contemporary set of relevant information for head and neck cancer providers to consider in this growing population.

A simplified frailty index and nomogram to predict the postoperative complications and survival in older patients with upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma

Purpose

This study was designed to investigate the clinical value of a simplified five-item frailty index (sFI) for predicting short- and long-term outcomes in older patients with upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) patients after radical nephroureterectomy (RNU).

Method

This retrospective study included 333 patients (aged ≥65 years) with UTUC. Patients were classified into five groups: 0, 1, 2, 3, and 3+, according to sFI score. The variable importance and minimum depth methods were used to screen for significant variables, and univariable and multivariable logistic regression models applied to investigated the relationships between significant variables and postoperative complications. Survival differences between groups were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier plots and log-rank tests. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to evaluate risk factors associated with overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS). Further, we developed a nomogram based on clinicopathological features and the sFI. The area under the curve (AUC), Harrel's concordance index (C-index), calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to evaluate the nomogram.

Result

Of 333 cases identified, 31.2% experienced a Clavien-Dindo grade of 2 or greater complication. Random forest-logistic regression modeling showed that sFI significantly influenced the incidence of postoperative complications in older patients (AUC= 0.756). Compared with patients with low sFI score, those with high sFI scores had significantly lower OS and CSS (p < 0.001). Across all patients, the random survival forest-Cox regression model revealed that sFI score was an independent prognostic factor for OS and CSS, with AUC values of 0.815 and 0.823 for predicting 3-year OS and CSS, respectively. The nomogram developed was clinically valuable and had good ability to discriminate abilities for high-risk patients. Further, we developed a survival risk classification system that divided all patients into high-, moderate-, and low-risk groups based on total nomogram points for each patient.

Conclusion

A simple five-item frailty index may be considered a prognostic factor for the prognosis and postoperative complications of UTUC following RNU. By using this predictive model, clinicians may increase their accuracy in predicting complications and prognosis and improve preoperative decision-making.

Survival and prognosis of surgical head and neck cancer patients aged 80 years and older

Introduction

Elderly patients (≥80 years of age) with head and neck cancer (HNC) can prove a management challenge due to concerns regarding their suitability for surgery. This study aims to describe the characteristics and outcomes of elderly patients undergoing HNC surgery.

Methods

A retrospective review of elderly patients undergoing HNC surgery was conducted. Demographics, comorbidities, tumor characteristics, surgical procedure type, postoperative complications, and disposition were reviewed. Overall survival (OS) in the elderly cohort was compared against younger patients (<80 years).

Results

A total of 595 patients were included, of whom 86 were aged >80 years (71% male; mean age 84.8, range 80.0-98.8 years). The overall complication rate was 43%. When compared with younger patients (n = 509), elderly patients had reduced OS (risk ratio: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.3-3.2), higher 90-day mortality (8.1% vs. 2.3%, p = .005), and lower 5-year survival (43.5% vs. 64.1%, p < .001). However, survival was comparable to age-specific life expectancy. There was no difference in OS, 90-day mortality, and 5-year survival when comparing >85 (n = 33) and 80-85 (n = 53) age groups.

Conclusions

Chronological age alone should not negatively influence decision-making in HNC surgery the elderly. With careful preoperative selection and optimization, surgery can be performed at acceptable risk with good outcomes in elderly patients.

Level of evidence

IV.

Management of Older Patients with Head and Neck Cancer: A Comprehensive Review

The projected increase in life expectancy over the next few decades is expected to result in a rise in age-related diseases, including cancer. Head and neck cancer (HNC) is a worldwide health problem with high rates of morbidity and mortality. In this report, we have critically reviewed the literature reporting the management of older patients with HNC. Older adults are more prone to complications and toxicities secondary to HNC treatment, especially those patients who are frail or have comorbidities. Thus, this population should be screened prior to treatment for such predispositions to maximize medical management of comorbidities. Chronologic age itself is not a reason for choosing less intensive treatment for older HNC patients. Whenever possible, also older patients should be treated according to the best standard of care, as nonstandard approaches may result in increased treatment failure rates and mortality. The treatment plan is best established by a multidisciplinary tumor board with shared decision-making with patients and family. Treatment modifications should be considered for those patients who have severe comorbidities, evidence of frailty (low performance status), or low performance status or those who refuse the recommendations of the tumor board.

Frailty as an indicator of postoperative complications following surgical excision of non-melanoma skin cancer on the head and neck

INTRODUCTION

Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) predominantly affects those aged over 90 years, with 85% of lesions arising on the head and neck, where surgical excision remains the treatment of choice. Frailty is a measure of physiologic age and can be used as a predictor of adverse treatment outcomes. The aim of this study was to determine if the Rockwood Frailty Index is predictive of complications following excision of NMSC.

METHODS

Data were collected prospectively for patients who underwent an excision of a suspected NMSC from the head or neck across a two-month period. Details of the patient, lesion and procedure were recorded alongside ASA grade and Rockwood's Frailty score. Postoperative complications were recorded four weeks later.

RESULTS

There was a total of 125 patients: 74 (60%) male, 51 (40%) female; mean age was 78 (±9.8) years. Of the excised sites, 61% were closed primarily, 26% with a full thickness skin graft (FTSG), 13% with a local flap. Frailty ranged from 1 to 7 (median = 4). ASA ranged from 1 to 4 (median = 3). A total of 21 (17%) patients reported postoperative complications. Within this group, the median frailty and ASA grades were 5 and 3. Both frailty and ASA were positively significantly associated with age (p ≤ 0.001). There was no significant difference between the frailty or ASA grades of patients that experienced complications and those who did not. Patients who had a FTSG were significantly more likely to experience complications (p ≤ 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Frailty is not predictive of postoperative complications following excision of NMSC on the head and neck. Postoperative complications are significantly more associated with FTSG.

Clinical and Therapeutic Considerations for Older Adults with Head and Neck Cancer

Approximately 30% of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) are at least 70 years of age, and this percentage is expected to increase as the population increases and lives longer. Elderly patients are underrepresented in head and neck oncology clinical trials, and there is minimal evidence on the management of HNSCC for this population. Subsequently, despite their best intentions, physicians may unknowingly recommend an ill-suited course of therapy, which may result in suboptimal oncological or functional outcomes or adverse events. Surgical approaches have the potential to carry a higher risk of morbidity and mortality in older adults, especially in patients with multiple comorbidities. Definitive radiation therapy treatment in patients with HNSCC frequently involves 7 weeks of daily radiation, sometimes with concurrent chemotherapy, and this demanding treatment can be difficult for older adult patients, which may lead to treatment interruptions, potential removal of concurrent systemic therapy, compromised outcomes, and diminished quality of life. There are clinical trials currently underway investigating altered fractionation regimens and novel, less toxic systemic treatments in this population. This review provides an overview of how best to approach an older adult with HNSCC, from initial work-up to treatment selection.

Effects of frailty on patients undergoing head and neck cancer surgery with flap reconstruction: a retrospective analysis

OBJECTIVES

To establish the implications of frailty as a predictor of outcome in patients with head and neck cancer requiring flap repair.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort.

DATA SOURCE

We captured data from patients above 60 years old undergoing head and neck tumour resection and free flap reconstruction surgery between June 2019 and June 2020 at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University. The data contain all treatment information.

OUTCOME VARIABLES

Surgery repeated in 30 days, postoperative complications, hospital length of stay, postoperative main biochemical standards.

EXPOSURE VARIABLES

Age, sex, smoking history, alcoholism history, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, National Nosocomial Infection Surveillance score and Clinical T staging were exposure variables. The frailty index is the main variable.

RESULT

A total of 254 patients were included in this study. Among them, 124 patients were classified as frail, while 130 patients were classified as non-frail. We found that frail patients stayed in the hospital longer than non-frail patients after surgery (p=0.018). According to the data of 26 frail patients who directly entered the intensive care unit (ICU), we found that these patients had a lower leucocyte count (p=0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

Frailty is a useful predictor of outcomes in patients undergoing head and neck cancer surgery with flap reconstruction. Frailty can be a clinical tool used to identify high-risk patients and guide perioperative care to optimise patient outcomes. Frail patients have better outcomes if they directly enter the ICU.

Assessing Risk of Severe Complications after Endoscopic Transnasal Transsphenoidal Surgery: A Comparison of Frailty, American Society of Anesthesiologists, and Comorbidity Scores

Objective  This study aimed to improve age-independent risk stratification for patients undergoing endoscopic transnasal transsphenoidal (TNTS) approach to pituitary mass resection by investigating the associations between frailty, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), and comorbidity scores with severe complications following TNTS. Design  This study is a retrospective review. Setting  This review was conducted utilizing the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database. Participants  A total of 680 cases of TNTS identified from 2010 to 2013 were included in this study. Main Outcome Measures  The modified frailty index (mFI) was calculated to quantify frailty. ASA and Charlson's comorbidity index (CCI) scores were obtained as physiologic status and comorbidity-based prognostic markers. Severe complications were separated into intensive care unit (ICU)-level complications, defined by Clavien-Dindo grade IV (CDIV) criteria, and mortality. Results  Overall, 24 CDIV complications (3.5%) and 6 deaths (0.9%) were recorded. Scores for mFI ( p  = 0.01, R ²  = 0.97) and ASA ( p  = 0.04., R ²  = 0.87) were significantly correlated with CDIV complications. ASA scores were significantly correlated with mortality ( p  = 0.03, R ²  = 0.87), as well as independently associated with CDIV complication by multivariable regression models (odds ratio [OR] = 2.96, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.35-6.83, p  < 0.01), while mFI was not. CCI was not significantly associated with CDIV complications or mortality. A multivariable regression model incorporating ASA had a lower Akaike's Information Criteria (AIC; 188.55) than a model incorporating mFI (195.99). Conclusion  Frailty and physiologic status, as measured by mFI and ASA scores respectively, both correlate with ICU-level complications after TNTS. ASA scores demonstrate greater clinical utility than mFI scores; however, as they are more easily generated, uniquely correlated with mortality and independently associated with ICU-level complication risk on multivariable regression analysis.

Frailty Assessed with FRAIL Scale and G8 Questionnaire Predicts Severe Postoperative Complications in Patients Receiving Major Head and Neck Surgery

Introduction: Frailty represents a complex geriatric syndrome associated with elevated rates of postoperative complications as shown for several malignant entities, including head and neck cancer. A specific screening instrument to assess frailty in head and neck patients does not exist. Both the FRAIL Scale and the G8 questionnaire are well-established and easy to use as screening tools. The present study’s aim was to assess the potential of frailty screening to predict postoperative complications in head and neck patients prior to surgery. Patients and methods: We recorded demographic data, pre-existing medical conditions and clinical characteristics in a prospective cohort of 104 head and neck cancer patients undergoing major head and neck surgery and assessed frailty prospectively on the day of admission utilizing the G8 questionnaire and the FRAIL Scale. We analyzed the link between occurrence of postoperative complications up to the twenty-first postoperative day and age, frailty and other covariates using χ² tests and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Results: There was no significant correlation between patients’ pre-existing medical conditions and postoperative complications. Whereas chronological age alone did not predict the occurrence of postoperative complications, frailty posed the highest risk for complications. Frailty according to either the G8 questionnaire or the FRAIL Scale predicted occurrence of complications with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.64 (p = 0.018) and 0.62 (p = 0.039) and severe complications with an AUC of 0.72 (p = 0.014) and 0.69 (p=0.031), respectively. Neither frailty score correlated with age or with each other. Conclusion: Prospective screening using the FRAIL Scale or the G8 questionnaire reliably detected frailty in our sample group. Frailty is linked to increased risk of postoperative complications. The correct prediction of severe postoperative complications as shown identifies vulnerable cases and triggers awareness of potential complications. Anticipating risk allows for a more comprehensive view of the patient and triggers decision making towards risk adjustment, and therefore a selective view of alternative treatment modalities.

Utility of hospital frailty risk score for predicting postoperative outcomes in craniopharyngioma

OVERVIEW

Frailty is an age-associated decline in functional status leading to increased vulnerability to otherwise innocuous stressors. In neurosurgical patients, frailty has been associated with postoperative complications, increased mortality, longer hospitalization, and increased care costs for a variety of conditions. This study seeks to determine the association between frailty and postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing surgery for craniopharyngioma.

METHODS

The Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database was queried for patients diagnosed with craniopharyngioma who underwent surgery via either craniotomy or transsphenoidal approach. Comorbid diagnoses were used to calculate the Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) and assign patients to low (< 5), intermediate (5-15), or high-risk (> 15) categories. Logistic regression was completed to determine whether the HFRS category was predictive of mortality, postoperative complication, extended hospitalization, or increased hospital costs compared to age.

RESULTS

Increased frailty score was predictive of increased length of stay, increased hospital costs, and non-home discharge in binary logistic regression with good discrimination on the ROC curve compared to age at admission. HFRS risk categories were significantly predictive of the development of any complication, with 100% of high-risk patients developing a complication compared to 76% of intermediate-risk and 63% of low-risk patients. HFRS risk categories were also predictive of the extended length of stay (71%, 49%, and 11% for high-, intermediate-, and low-risk, respectively) and non-home discharge (86%, 56%, and 17%). Regression analysis was unable to be performed for mortality due to the low number of deaths in the study group.

CONCLUSION

In patients undergoing any surgery for craniopharyngioma, frailty is predictive of increased hospital length of stay and overall care costs. HFRS failed to independently predict mortality because the incidence of mortality is too low in this population to analyze. The HFRS is a valuable tool to identify post-operative outcomes following surgery for craniopharyngioma.

Management of Older Adults with Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer

Simple Summary

Approximately one third of patients with head and neck cancer are older adults. The number of older adults with head and neck cancer continues to rise especially as life expectancy increases. However, this population remains significantly underrepresented in clinical trials. Due to this, there is no clear consensus regarding the optimal treatment for older adults with head and neck cancer. In general, older adults are a complex cohort due to variations in functional and performance status, medical comorbidities, and medication management. Treatment for head and neck cancer involves surgery, radiation therapy, systemic therapy, or a combination. These treatments are highly demanding. Additionally, they are associated with toxicity which can be especially difficult for older adults to tolerate. This may lead to treatment interruptions and compromised outcomes. In order to understand the optimal treatment for older adults with head and neck cancer, novel predictive scores are being developed. Additionally, ongoing clinical trials are investigating less intensive treatments for older adults. This review provides an overview of current clinical data, treatment considerations, and future areas of investigation for older adults with head and neck cancer.

Abstract

Thirty percent of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) are at least 70 years of age. This number continues to rise as life expectancy continues to increase. Still, older adults with HNSCC remain underrepresented in clinical trials, resulting in ambiguity on optimal management. Older adults are a complex patient population, often requiring increased support due to issues relating to functional and performance status, medical comorbidities, and medication management. Furthermore, in older adults with HNSCC, many of these conditions are independently associated with increased toxicity and worse outcomes. Toxicity in the older adult remains difficult to predict and to understand, and as treatment decisions are based on treatment tolerability, it is essential to understand the toxicities and how to minimize them. Novel predictive scores are being developed specifically for older adults with HNSCC to understand toxicity and to assist in personalized treatment decisions. There are clinical trials presently underway that are investigating shortened radiation courses and novel, less toxic systemic treatments in this population. In the forthcoming sections, we provide a detailed overview of the clinical data, treatment paradigms, and considerations in this population. This review provides a comprehensive overview of existing clinical data and clinical considerations in the older adult head and neck cancer population. Additionally, we provide a detailed overview of pertinent current and ongoing clinical trials, as well as future areas for investigation.

"Age is just a number"; frailty as a marker of peri-operative risk in head and neck surgery: Systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Frailty refers to a patient's reduced capacity to withstand stressors due to a reduction in physiologic reserves. We assessed the impact of frailty on outcomes following head and neck surgery.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Meta-analysis was performed using the Mantel-Haenszel method.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies incorporating 182 059 patients were included in qualitative synthesis with 15 953 (8.8%) of patients deemed as frail. Meta-analysis incorporating nine studies demonstrated that frailty is associated with an increased 30 day postoperative morbidity (OR 2.74; 95% CI 1.98-3.80; p < 0.01) and meta-analysis with six studies suggested increased 30-day mortality (OR 2.94; 95% CI 2.62-3.31; p < 0.01). Preliminary meta-analyses between two and five studies suggested that frail patients had reduced overall survival and were more likely to be discharged to a nonhome location or readmitted within 30 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Frailty appears to be associated with poor short-term outcomes following head and neck surgery and may improve understanding of an individual patient's peri-operative risk.

Management of elderly patients with head and neck cancer

There are no established guidelines for managing older patients with head and neck cancer. Most clinical trials that define current standard therapy included few elderly patients. On the other hand, there is great variability in patients' comorbidities, physical functions, cognitive function, familial and financial background and values. The key point appears to be appropriate geriatric assessment, clarifying the patients' outcomes and a multidisciplinary team approach, including the treatment decision-making policy. Although these processes should be scientific in nature, the evidence for the treatment of elderly head and neck patients is very limited. This review summarizes the evidence available regarding the management of geriatric assessment, each treatment modality and the multidisciplinary team approach for older patients with head and neck cancers.

Multi-domain analysis of non-surgical risk factors amenable to pre-operative optimization in microvascular head and neck surgery

PURPOSE

The goal of this study was to conduct a multi-domain, organ system-based analysis of non-surgical comorbidities amenable to pre-operative optimization in patients undergoing free tissue transfer, in order to better understand factors that influence patient outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review.

SETTINGS

Tertiary academic center.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 546 patients in a prospectively maintained database who underwent free tissue transfer reconstruction between 2007 and 2016 was performed. Analysis of the relationship between binary-coded system-based domains and log-transformed length of stay (LOS), rehabilitation requirement, 30-day readmission, and post-operative complications was conducted with multiple linear regression or logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Poor nutritional status and the presence of anxiety/depression independently increased median hospital LOS. Endocrine and metabolic deficits, poor nutrition status, and psychiatric comorbidities were significant predictors for rehabilitation facility requirement upon discharge.

CONCLUSION

Interventions targeted to patient psychiatric and nutritional health may yield substantially improved outcomes in the head and neck cancer population receiving free tissue transfer surgery.

[Frailty in Head and Neck Oncology]

Since treatment of elderly patients with head and neck cancer is often challenging due to preexisting comorbidities, continuous efforts are required to raise awareness for frailty, which is a multidimensional state of diminished physiologic reserve resulting in decreased resiliency and increased vulnerability to stressors. Frailty is a predictor of poor clinical outcomes in head and neck cancer patients, but until now there is no standardization of frailty assessment. Pretherapeutic frailty assessment among head and neck cancer patients should be incorporated into routine multidisciplinary management to predict adverse outcomes and tailor a personalized treatment. This article would like to explain the complex syndrome frailty and its importance for head and neck oncology.

Outcomes following head and neck cancer surgery among older adults as determined by an electronic geriatric assessment

PURPOSE

Older adults with head and neck cancer have increased postoperative complications, longer hospital stays, and higher rates of mortality. Geriatric assessment (GA) provides a measure of overall health status and is preferable to using age alone for assessing fitness for surgery. We sought to determine whether a patient's frailty as determined by a novel electronic GA is associated with outcomes after head and neck cancer (HNC) surgery.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of 159 patients aged 75 and older referred to the Geriatrics Service at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center for pre-operative evaluation prior to undergoing HNC surgery. All patients completed the electronic Rapid Fitness Assessment (eRFA) within 60 days prior to surgery. The accumulated geriatric deficit (AGD) score includes twelve domains from the eRFA with a point assigned for each domain in which there is a deficit and a final point related to comorbidities. Three other metrics were individually assessed: age, Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS), and number of comorbidities. We utilized multivariable linear regression and t-tests to determine whether frailty is associated with longer length of hospital stay, 30-day intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and 30-day and 90-day postoperative mortality.

RESULTS

Patients with a higher AGD score spent more time in the hospital post-operatively (1.0 day increase per unit increase in AGD; 95% CI: 0.21-1.9; p = 0.015). Lower KPS was also associated with statistically significant longer length of stay (-2.70 day change per increasing index KPS; 95% CI: -4.30 - -1.00; days; p = 0.002), while age and comorbidity were not found to be statistically associated with length of stay. Higher AGD score remained significantly associated with longer length of stay on multivariable analysis (0.93 day increase per unit increase in AGD; 95% CI 0.15-1.71; p = 0.019). AGD was the only metric associated with increased risk of ICU admission (6.6 vs 5.0 geriatric deficits for those admitted vs not admitted to ICU; p = 0.024).

CONCLUSIONS

Frailty is associated with increased length of hospital stay and ICU admission in older adults with HNC undergoing surgery. GA can be used to counsel patients on the expected postoperative course.

Association between Sarcopenia and Immediate Complications and Mortality in Patients with Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma Undergoing Surgery

Simple Summary

Surgery remains the mainstay treatment for oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Up to 40% of patients with OSCC experience postoperative complications, most within the first 30 days since surgery. The early detection of postoperative complications is challenging. Sarcopenia has been shown to be a negative predictor of the surgical and oncological outcomes of patients with OSCC. The effect of sarcopenia associated with immediate complications and impaired survival after surgery for OSCC is still unknown. This study comprehensively investigated the clinical risk factors and biomarkers associated with 30-day postoperative complications and 5- and 8-year survival of patients with OSCC. Sarcopenia was an independent risk factor associated with 30-day complications, increased reoperation rate, and reduced short- and long-term overall and disease-free survival. Sarcopenia should be assessed before surgery to identify high-risk patients who require a more intensive approach to minimize complications and may be clinically helpful in tailoring treatment strategies for patients with OSCC.

Abstract

Sarcopenia negatively affects oncologic outcomes. However, studies have yet to reveal whether it is associated with postoperative complications and survival among patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). This study retrospectively enrolled 592 patients undergoing primary OSCC surgery with available computed tomography (CT) images of their third cervical vertebrae (C3) within 30 days before surgery between January 2011 and December 2020. Preoperative sarcopenia, nutritional and frailty status, tumor characteristics, comorbidities, and inflammatory markers were assessed. The outcome variables included 30-day complications based on the Buzby and Dindo classification, reoperation, 5- and 8-year overall survival, and disease-free survival. A total of 318 (53.7%) had sarcopenia; of these patients, 217 (68.2%) presented with postoperative complications, and 48 (15.1%) underwent reoperations. Sarcopenia and higher systemic immune-inflammatory index were independently associated with local to systemic 30-day complications. Sarcopenia, advanced-stage disease, and extracapsular spread were correlated with 5- and 8-year survival. The presence of sarcopenia is associated with the 30-day complications and short- and long-term survival of patients who had OSCC and underwent surgery.

Impact of Delay on Hospitalization in Older Patients With Head and Neck Cancer: A Multicenter Study

OBJECTIVE

To assess the impact of delay in treatment initiation on hospitalization, overall survival, and recurrence in older patients with head and neck cancer (HNC).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective multicenter study.

SETTING

Two tertiary referral centers.

METHODS

All patients with newly diagnosed HNC (≥60 years) treated between 2015 and 2017 were retrospectively included. Time-to-treatment intervals were assessed (ie, calendar days between first visit and start of treatment). Multiple multivariable models were performed with hospital admission days (>14 days), survival, and recurrence as dependent outcome variables.

RESULTS

In total, 525 patients were enrolled. The mean age was 70.7 years and 70.7% were male. Median time to treatment was 34.0 days, and 36.3% started treatment within 30 days (P = .576 between centers). Patients with radiotherapy had longer time to treatment than surgical patients (39.0 vs 29.0 days, P < .001). Current smoking status, stage IV tumors, and definitive radiotherapy were significantly associated with delay in the multivariable analysis. Time-to-treatment interval ≥30 days was a significant predictor of longer hospital admission (>14 days) in the first year after treatment in an adjusted model (odds ratio, 4.66 [95% CI, 2.59-8.37]; P < .001). Delay in treatment initiation was not associated with overall survival or tumor recurrence.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the importance and challenges of ensuring timely treatment initiation in older patients with HNC, as treatment delay was an independent predictor of hospitalization. During oncologic workup, taking time to consider patient-centered outcomes (including minimizing time spent in hospital) while ensuring timely start of treatment requires well-structured, fast-track care pathways.

Assessing patient frailty in plastic surgery: A systematic review

PURPOSE

With the increase in the aging population, the level of frailty has become an important metric for assessing preoperative patient risk. Although medical and surgical specialties continue to adopt and standardize the use of frailty instruments, few studies within the plastic surgery literature have utilized such instruments to predict poor postoperative outcomes. The purpose of this article is two-fold: (1) to provide a comprehensive review of the existing frailty instruments and (2) to summarise the existing evidence regarding the role of pre-operative frailty assessments on peri‑operative morbidity and mortality in plastic surgery.

METHODS

This systematic review was registered a priori on the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/vfzw8). A computerized database search of Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane was performed from database inception to December 13, 2020. All articles that examined the effect of preoperative patient frailty on perioperative morbidity and mortality outcomes following plastic surgery interventions were included for data extraction.

RESULTS

From the 11 studies included in this review, ten unique frailty instruments were identified. The modified Frailty Index (mFI) and the Fried Frailty Index (FFI) were the most commonly reported frailty measurement tools; however, the FRAIL scale was the only outcome measure identified to be valid, reliable, and responsive to change. Regardless of the frailty measure used, nearly all studies reported that worse surgical outcomes were associated with a higher patient frailty score.

CONCLUSION

There is a strong association between higher frailty scores and worse postoperative outcomes in plastic surgery. The FRAIL scale is a clinimetrically sound frailty instrument that should be used in all patients to assess perioperative risk in plastic surgery.

Symptom Clusters in Head and Neck Cancer: A Systematic Review and Conceptual Model

OBJECTIVE

The two approaches to symptom-cluster research include grouping symptoms and grouping patients. The objective of this systematic review was to examine the conceptual approaches and methodologies used in symptom-cluster research in patients with head and neck cancer.

DATA SOURCES

Articles were retrieved from electronic databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE via Ovid, APA PsycINFO, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials-CENTRAL), five grey literature portals, and Google Scholar. Seventeen studies met the eligibility criteria. Eight studies grouped symptoms to identify symptom clusters, of which two used qualitative methods. The number of symptom clusters ranged from two to five, and the number of symptoms in a cluster ranged from 2 to 11. Nine studies grouped patients based on their experiences with multiple symptoms. Cluster analysis and factor analysis were most commonly used. Despite variable names and composition of symptom clusters, synthesis revealed three prominent symptom clusters: general, head and neck cancer-specific, and gastrointestinal. Being female and quality of life were significantly associated with high symptom group or cluster severity. Biological mechanisms were sparsely examined.

CONCLUSION

Symptom cluster research in head and neck cancer is emerging. Consensus on nomenclature of a symptom cluster will facilitate deduction of core clinically relevant symptom clusters in head and neck cancer. Further research is required on understanding patients' subjective experiences, identifying predictors and outcomes, and underlying mechanisms for symptom clusters.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Identification of clinically relevant symptom clusters would enable targeted symptom assessment and management strategies, thus improving treatment efficiencies and patient outcomes.

Cognitive Impairment and Delirium in Older Patients Undergoing Major Head and Neck Surgery

The study objective was to measure the prevalence and predictors of cognitive impairment (CI) and delirium. Adults undergoing major head and neck cancer surgery completed the Clock Draw Test to screen for CI, defined as a score of 0 or 1. Postoperative delirium was recorded. Predictors of delirium and length of stay were assessed by univariate logistic regression and the latter with multivariate linear regression. Overall 274 patients were included, of which 47% had a Clock Draw Test score of 0 or 1. Post-operative delirium occurred in 17 (6%). CI was a predictor of postoperative delirium (odds ratio, 3.9; 95% CI, 1.2-12; P = .02). Postoperative delirium was a predictor of increased length of stay (adjusted odds ratio, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.07-1.57; P = .0073) on multivariate regression while baseline Clock Draw Test result was not a predictor on univariate regression (P = .98). Screening for CI can help predict delirium and facilitate targeted interventions in the postoperative period.

Evaluation of Sarcopenia, Frailty, and Inflammation on Adverse Events and Survival Outcomes in Patients with Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma under Adjuvant Chemoradiotherapy

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the prognostic impact of sarcopenia, five-item modified frailty index (mFI-5), neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) treated with adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT) and their survival outcomes. We retrospectively enrolled 175 patients with OSCC undergoing adjuvant CRT between 2011 and 2018, who were divided into groups with (n = 112) and without (n = 63) sarcopenia. Logistic regression analysis and Cox proportional hazards models were used to determine prognostic factors for CRT-related toxicity, three-year overall survival (OS), and disease-free survival (DFS). Sarcopenia and high PLR were independently associated with CRT-induced anemia (CIA); advanced tumor stage was related to poor three-year OS. CRT and survival did not differ by mFI-5 and NLR. Our results indicate that sarcopenia and high PLR are significant predictors of adjuvant CRT, increasing toxicity outcomes and indicating worse short-term OS. Accurately identifying sarcopenia and high PLR in patients with OSCC is critical to help better select candidates for adjuvant CRT to improve their outcomes.

Influencing factors of Barthel index scores among the community-dwelling elderly in Hong Kong: a random intercept model

Background

Barthel Index (BI) is one of the most widely utilized tools for assessing functional independence in activities of daily living. Most existing BI studies used populations with specific diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s and stroke) to test prognostic factors of BI scores; however, the generalization of these findings was limited when the target populations varied.

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and data mining techniques to develop a generic procedure for identifying prognostic factors that influence BI score changes among community-dwelling elderly.

Methods

Longitudinal data were collected from 113 older adults (81 females; mean age = 84 years, SD = 6.9 years) in Hong Kong elderly care centers. Visualization technologies were used to align annual BI scores with individual EHRs chronologically. Linear mixed-effects (LME) regression was conducted to model longitudinal BI scores based on socio-demographics, disease conditions, and features extracted from EHRs.

Results

The visualization presented a decline in BI scores changed by time and health history events. The LME model yielded a conditional R² of 84%, a marginal R² of 75%, and a Cohen’s f² of 0.68 in the design of random intercepts for individual heterogeneity. Changes in BI scores were significantly influenced by a set of socio-demographics (i.e., sex, education, living arrangement, and hobbies), disease conditions (i.e., dementia and diabetes mellitus), and EHRs features (i.e., event counts in allergies, diagnoses, accidents, wounds, hospital admissions, injections, etc.).

Conclusions

The proposed visualization approach and the LME model estimation can help to trace older adults’ BI score changes and identify the influencing factors. The constructed long-term surveillance system provides reference data in clinical practice and help healthcare providers manage the time, cost, data and human resources in community-dwelling settings.

Age and Comorbidities Impact Medical Complications and Mortality Following Free Flap Reconstruction

OBJECTIVE

Determine if age correlated with surgical or medical complications following head and neck free flap reconstruction.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review of prospectively collected databases.

METHODS

Patients undergoing head and neck free flap reconstruction at three tertiary care institutions were included (n = 1972). Cohorts were based on age (<65, 65-75, 75-85, and >85). Outcomes reviewed operative duration, length of stay, surgical complications (free flap failure, fistula, hematoma, dehiscence, and infection), and medical complications (thromboembolism, stroke, cardiac, and pulmonary).

RESULTS

Anatomic site (P < .0001) and donor site varied by age (P < .0001). There was no difference in operative duration (P = .3) or length of hospitalization (P = .8) by age. The incidence of medical complications increased with increasing age. Pulmonary complication rates: <65 (3.9%), 65 to 75 (4.8%), 75 to 85 (7.1%), and >85 (11%) (P = .02). Cardiac complication rates: <65 (2.0%), 65 to 75 (7.3%), 75 to 85 (6.1%), and >85 (16.4%) (P < .0001). Mortality increased with age: <65 (0.4%), 65 to 75 (0.8%), 75 to 85 (1.1%), and >85 (4.1%) (P < .003). Medical complications correlated with mortality rates: pulmonary (3.5% vs. 0.6%; OR: 5.5; 95% CI: 1.5-20.0; P = .004); cardiac (3.3% vs. 0.6%; OR: 6.0; 95% CI: 1.6-21.8; P = .002); thromboembolism (4.6% vs. 0.7%; OR: 7.3; 95% CI: 1.6-33.6; P = .003); stroke (42% vs. 0.5%; OR: 149; 95% CI: 40-558; P < .0001); and sepsis (5% vs. 0.7%; OR 7.5; 95% CI: 1.0-60.5; P = .03). Age did not correlate with free flap success (P = .5), surgical complications (hematoma, P = .33; fistula, P = .23; infection, P = .07; and dehiscence, P = .37), or thirty-day readmission (P = .3).

CONCLUSION

Following free flap reconstruction, patient age did not correlate with development of a surgical complication. Patient age did correlate with development of a medical complication. Postoperative medical complications were found to correlate with perioperative mortality.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 2021.

Evaluation of Sarcopenia in Older Patients Undergoing Head and Neck Cancer Surgery

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Sarcopenia is a hallmark of aging and its identification may help predict adverse postoperative events in patients undergoing head and neck surgery. The study objective was to assess the relationship between sarcopenia and postoperative complications and length of stay in patients undergoing major head and neck cancer surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was performed of patients 50 years and older undergoing major head and neck surgery. Sarcopenia was defined as low muscle mass (determined by neck muscle cross-sectional imaging) with either low muscle strength (grip strength) or low muscle performance (timed walk test). Logistic regression was applied on binary outcomes, and linear regression was used for log-transformed length of hospital stay (LOS). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Of the 251 patients enrolled, pre-sarcopenia was present in 34.9% (n = 87) and sarcopenia in 15.6% (n = 39) of patients. Patients with sarcopenia were more likely to be older (P = .001), female (P = .001), have a lower body mass index (P = .001), and lower preoperative hemoglobin (P < .001). On univariate analysis, the presence and severity of sarcopenia was associated with the development of medical complications (P = .029), higher grade of complications (P = .032), LOS (P = .015), and overall survival (P = .001). On multivariate analysis, sarcopenia was associated with a longer LOS (β = 0.32 [95% CI: 0.19-0.45], P < .001) and worse overall survival (HR = 2.21 [95% CI: 1.01-4.23], P = .017).

CONCLUSIONS

Sarcopenia may aid in the prediction of prolonged hospital stay and death in patients who are candidates for major head and neck surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 2021.

Association between modified frailty index and surgical outcomes in intradural skull base surgery

The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of preoperative frailty on short-term outcomes following intradural resection of skull base lesions. The 2005-2017 ACS-NSQIP database was queried for 30-day post-operative outcomes of patients undergoing intradural resection of the skull base, extracted by CPT codes 61601, 61606, 61608, and 61616. Five-item modified frailty index (mFI) was calculated based on the history of diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, congestive heart failure, chronic hypertension, and functional status. A total of 701 patients (58.8% female, 72.0% white) were included with a mean age of 51.8 ± 14.7 years. Compared to patients with mFI = 0 (n = 403), patients with mFI ≥ 1 (n = 298) were more likely to have higher rates of reoperation (13.4% vs. 8.7%, p = 0.045), medical complications (20.5% vs. 9.2%, p < 0.001), surgical complications (13.8% vs. 8.4%, p = 0.024), discharge to non-home facility (DNHF) (24.8% vs. 13.3%, p < 0.001), and prolonged length of hospitalization (7.3 ± 6.8 days vs. 5.6 ± 5.0, p = 0.003). Moreover, mFI = 1-3 was also associated with higher BMI, non-white race, high ASA, and older age (all p < 0.05). Upon adjusting for age, BMI, race, ASA score, and surgical site, multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that higher mFI (treated as a continuous variable) was associated with higher odds of medical complications (OR = 1.630, CI = 1.153-2.308, p = 0.006), surgical complications (OR = 1.594, CI = 1.042-2.438, p < 0.031), and LOS ≥ 10 days (OR = 1.609, CI = 1.176-2.208, p = 0.003). In conclusion, the 5-item mFI can be an independent predictor of several important short-term surgical outcomes following intradural resection of skull base lesions, warranting further investigations into its clinical utility.

Assessment of Preoperative Functional Status Prior to Major Head and Neck Surgery: A Pilot Study

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate feasibility of a recently developed preoperative assessment tool, the Vulnerable Elders Surgical Pathways and Outcomes Analysis (VESPA), to characterize the baseline functional status of patients undergoing major head and neck surgery and to examine the relationship between preoperative functional status and postoperative outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series with planned data collection.

SETTING

Two tertiary care academic hospitals.

METHODS

The VESPA was administered prospectively in the preoperative setting. Data on patient demographics, ablative and reconstructive procedures, and outcomes including total length of stay, discharge disposition, delay in discharge, or complex discharge planning (delay or change in disposition) were collected via retrospective chart review. VESPA scores were calculated and risk categories were used to estimate risk of adverse postoperative outcomes using multivariate logistic regression for categorical outcomes and linear regression for continuous variables.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight patients met study inclusion criteria. The mean (SD) age was 66.4 (11.9) years, and 58.4% of patients were male. Nearly one-fourth described preoperative difficulty in either a basic or instrumental activity of daily living, and 17% were classified as low functional status (ie, high risk) according to the VESPA. Low functional status did not independently predict length of stay but was associated with delayed discharge (odds ratio [OR], 5.0; 95% CI, 1.2-21.3; P = .030) and complex discharge planning (OR, 5.7; 95% CI, 1.34-24.2; P = .018).

CONCLUSION

The VESPA can identify major head and neck surgical patients with low preoperative functional status who may be at risk for delayed or complex discharge planning. These patients may benefit from enhanced preoperative counseling and more comprehensive discharge preparation.

Low skeletal muscle mass predicts frailty in elderly head and neck cancer patients

Purpose

Treatment of head and neck cancer (HNC) carries a high risk of adverse outcomes in patients, especially in frail elderly. Therefore, it is important to identify patients in which treatment benefits outweigh the risk of any adverse outcome. Although the comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) identifies frailty, it is a time-consuming tool. Instead, measurement of skeletal muscle mass and strength (sarcopenia) may be a promising and time-efficient biomarker for frailty. The aim of this study was to examine the association between sarcopenia and frailty assessment tools, such as the CGA, Fried criteria and the Groningen Frailty Indicator (GFI).

Methods

A retrospective study was performed in elderly patients (≥ 70-years) with HNC. Sarcopenia was defined as the combination of reduced handgrip strength (HGS) and low skeletal muscle mass (SMM), according to the EWGSOP-2 criteria. SMM was measured on routinely available diagnostic imaging and corrected height: skeletal muscle index (SMI). A CGA was performed by a geriatrician. Frailty screening was performed using the GFI and the Fried criteria.

Results

In total, 73 patients were included of which 33 were men (45.2%) and 40 women (54.8%). Frail patients diagnosed by CGA were more likely to have low SMI, sarcopenia, more comorbidities and were at high risk for malnutrition (all p < 0.05). In multivariate regression analysis, the only significant predictor for frailty diagnosed by CGA was SMI (OR 0.9, p < 0.01) independent of comorbidity and muscle strength.

Conclusion

Low SMI and sarcopenia are associated with frailty in elderly HNC patients. Low SMI predicts frailty and is a promising time-efficient and routinely available tool for clinical practice.

Change in Physical Performance Correlates with Decline in Quality of Life and Frailty Status in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Undergoing Radiation with and without Chemotherapy

Simple Summary

Quality of life (QoL) scores and frailty status are becoming increasingly important criterion with implications on both how patients are treated and survival in head and neck cancer (HNC). Despite this, physicians lack tools to identify patients who are at risk of suffering declines in QoL and becoming frail following treatment. Therefore, we investigated whether functional decline, as measured by a series of physical tests called the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), correlated with a reduction in QoL and increased risk of frailty. In the current study, patients who experienced a decline in SPPB scores were significantly more likely to have changes in physical functioning QoL measures as well as transition to frail status following treatment. In conclusion, the SPPB may be a useful tool to identify patients who may benefit from additional rehabilitation in future studies.

Abstract

Patient-reported quality of life (QoL) metrics, frailty status, and physical functioning are emerging concepts in head and neck cancer (HNC) with implications on both treatment decision-making and prognosis. The impact of treatment-related functional decline on QoL and frailty has not been well-characterized in HNC and was the focus of this investigation. Methods: Patients who underwent radiation therapy for HNC from 2018 to 2020 were evaluated as a prospective observational cohort. Functional decline, QoL, and the frailty phenotype were measured via the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) qlq-C30, and Fried Frailty index, respectively. Results: A total of 106 HNC patients were included, 75 of which received concurrent chemoradiation therapy (CCRT) and 31 received radiation alone, both with and without surgery. There was a decrease in SPPB overall (p < 0.001) from the beginning to the end of treatment in the CCRT group but not the radiation group (p = 0.43). Change in overall SPPB points following treatment correlated with the decline in physical QoL for both groups (p < 0.05) as well as transition frail status in the CCRT group (p < 0.001) with a trend in the radiation group (p = 0.08). Conclusions: Change in SPPB correlates with QoL and transition to frailty status in patients undergoing definitive CCRT for HNC with similar trends in those receiving radiation alone. Decline in SPPB could potentially be useful in identification of those who may benefit from rehabilitation in future studies.

Association of metabolic equivalent of task (MET) score in length of stay in hospital following radical cystectomy with urinary diversion: a multi-institutional study

PURPOSE

The Metabolic equivalent of task (MET) score is used in patients' preoperative functional capacity assessment. It is commonly thought that patients with a higher MET score will have better postoperative outcomes than patients with a lower MET score. However, such a link remains the subject of debate and is yet unvalidated in major urological surgery. This study aimed to explore the association of patients' MET score with their postoperative outcomes following radical cystectomy.

METHODS

We used records-linkage methodology with unique identifiers (Community Health Index/hospital number) and electronic databases to assess postoperative outcomes of patients who had underwent radical cystectomies between 2015 and 2020. The outcome measure was patients' length of hospital stay. This was compared with multiple basic characteristics such as age, sex, MET score and comorbid conditions. A MET score of less than four (< 4) is taken as the threshold for a poor functional capacity. We conducted unadjusted and adjusted Cox regression analyses for time to discharge against MET score.

RESULTS

A total of 126 patients were included in the analysis. Mean age on date of operation was 66.2 (SD 12.2) years and 49 (38.9%) were female. A lower MET score was associated with a statistically significant lower time-dependent risk of hospital discharge (i.e. longer hospital stay) when adjusted for covariates (HR 0.224; 95% CI 0.077-0.652; p = 0.006). Older age (adjusted HR 0.531; 95% CI 0.332-0.848; p = 0.008) and postoperative complications (adjusted HR 0.503; 95% CI 0.323-0.848; p = 0.002) were also found to be associated with longer hospital stay. Other comorbid conditions, BMI, disease staging and 30-day all-cause mortality were statistically insignificant.

CONCLUSION

A lower MET score in this cohort of patients was associated with a longer hospital stay length following radical cystectomy with urinary diversion.

Frailty as a Predictor of Postoperative Complications Following Skull Base Surgery

OBJECTIVE/HYPOTHESIS

Frailty has emerged as a powerful risk stratification tool across surgical specialties; however, an analysis of the impact of frailty on outcomes following skull base surgery has not been published. The aim of this study was to assess the validity of the 5-factor modified frailty index (mFI-5) as a predictor of perioperative morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing skull base surgery.

METHODS

A mFI-5 score was calculated for patients undergoing skull base surgeries using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database from 2005 to 2018. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association of increasing frailty with complications in the 30-day postoperative period, with a subanalysis by operative location.

RESULTS

A total of 17,912 patients who underwent skull base procedures were identified, with 45.5% of patients having a frailty score of one or greater; 44.9% were male and the mean age was 52.0 (±16.1 SD) years. Multivariable regression analysis revealed frailty to be an independent predictor of overall complications (odds ratio [OR]: 1.325, P < .001), life-threatening complications (OR: 1.428, P < .001), and mortality (OR: 1.453, P < .001). Higher frailty also correlated with increased length of stay. When procedures were stratified by operative location, frailty correlated significantly with overall complications for middle, posterior, and multiple-fossae operations but not the anterior fossa.

CONCLUSIONS

Frailty demonstrates a significant and stepwise association with life-threatening postoperative morbidity, mortality, and length of stay following skull base surgeries. mFI-5 is an objective and easily calculable measure of preoperative risk, which may facilitate perioperative planning and counseling regarding outcomes prior to surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 131:1977-1984, 2021.

Methods for frailty screening and geriatric assessment in older adults with cancer

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review highlights the latest development in the use of geriatric assessment(GA) and frailty assessment for older adults with cancer.

RECENT FINDINGS

From 2019, there were six large randomized controlled trials (RCTs) completed of GA for older adults with cancer, as well as several studies of frailty screening tools.

SUMMARY

The findings in this review highlight the benefits of implementing GA, followed by interventions to address the identified issues (GA -guided interventions). Four of six RCTs that implemented GA for older adults with cancer showed positive impact on various outcomes, including treatment toxicity and quality of life. GA implementation varied significantly between studies, from oncologist acting on GA summary, geriatrician comanagement, to full GA by a multidisciplinary team. However, there were several barriers reported to implementing GA for all older adults with cancer, such as access to geriatrics and resource issues. Future research needs to elucidate how to best operationalize GA in various cancer settings. The authors also reviewed frailty screening tools and latest evidence on their use and impact.

Evaluation of the Braden scale in predicting surgical outcomes in older patients undergoing major head and neck surgery

BACKGROUND

Being able to predict negative postoperative outcomes is important for helping select patients for treatment as well for informed decision-making by patients. Frailty measures are often time and resource intensive to use as screening measures, whereas the Braden scale, a commonly used measure to assess patients at risk of developing pressure ulcers after surgery, may be a potential tool to predict postoperative complication rates and longer length of stay (LOS) in patients undergoing major head and neck cancer surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of Braden scale scores was performed on a prospectively collected cohort of patients undergoing major head and neck surgery recruited between December 2011 and April 2014. The association of Braden scale score with the primary outcomes of complications and LOS was analyzed using logistic regression and linear regression models on univariate analysis (UVA), respectively. Multivariate analysis (MVA) was performed based on a backward stepwise selection algorithm.

RESULTS

There were 232 patients with a mean (SD) Braden scale score of 14.9 (2.8) with a range from 9 to 23. The Braden scale (β = -.07 per point; 95% CI -0.09, -0.04, P < .001) was an independent predictor of increased LOS on UVA, but not on MVA when adjusted for other variables. For overall complications, as well as type of complication, the Braden scale score was not a significant predictor of complications on either UVA or MVA.

CONCLUSION

In the sample population, the Braden scale did not demonstrate an ability to predict negative outcomes in head and neck surgery patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 2b individual cohort study.

Considerations for head and neck oncology practices during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic: Wuhan and Toronto experience

The practices of head and neck surgical oncologists must evolve to meet the unprecedented needs placed on our health care system by the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Guidelines are emerging to help guide the provision of head and neck cancer care, though in practice, it can be challenging to operationalize such recommendations. Head and neck surgeons at Wuhan University faced significant challenges in providing care for their patients. Similar challenges were faced by the University of Toronto during the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) pandemic in 2003. Herein, we outline our combined experience and key practical considerations for maintaining an oncology service in the midst of a pandemic.