Perioperative Care of the Elderly

The geriatric population is growing in number and complexity in modern surgical practice. This challenging group presents differences in physiology and outcomes that make a more comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach necessary. This review emphasizes the meticulous assessment and preparation in all facets before surgery, including a thorough examination, nutrition evaluation and intervention, and preoperative optimization of pulmonary function and cardiovascular hemodynamics. This article highlights the importance of age-related pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic considerations, effective pain control, as well as prevention and treat-ment of hypothermia, fluid and electrolyte imbalance, and postoperative delirium. The vulnerable elderly patient with multiple medical problems and functional impairment is best served by a surgeon with a particular interest and working knowledge of the changes associated with aging and the physiology of surgery and anesthesia.