Preoperative Sarcopenia and Postoperative Outcomes in Older Patients With Gastrointestinal Cancer

This prospective cohort study aims to evaluate the association between preoperative sarcopenia and postoperative outcomes in patients aged 60 years or older undergoing elective surgery for gastrointestinal cancer. Sarcopenia will be assessed preoperatively using the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2 (EWGSOP2) criteria, including muscle strength, muscle mass, and physical performance, together with the Strength, Assistance with walking, Rise from a chair, Climb stairs, and Falls (SARC-F) questionnaire and calf circumference measurement. Participants will be followed for 90 days after surgery. Postoperative complications, length of hospital stay, and 30-day and 90-day mortality will be evaluated.

Inclusion Criteria: * Age 60 years or older * Diagnosis of gastrointestinal system cancer * Scheduled to undergo elective surgical treatment * Considered operable based on routine clinical evaluation * Ability to complete the preoperative sarcopenia assessments * Provision of written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Age younger than 60 years * Undergoing emergency surgery * Inability to complete the required preoperative sarcopenia assessment