Inflammatory Bowel Disease in the Aging Population: A Path Towards Integrating Medical Care and Surgical Management
IBD is a chronic disease of the gastrointestinal tract characterized by inflammation; Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are the most common types. IBD is typically diagnosed in younger adults, but the incidence in the elderly is increasing, which is significant. Thus, the management of IBD in ageing patients is quite different and requires special consideration of complex physiological changes, co-existent diseases, and surgical interventions. This is where the job of a surgical gerontologist comes into play. In Chennai, India, Dr. Patta Radhakrishna, a consultant Gastrointestinal Surgeon, is a perfect example of this kind of care, which integrates surgical expertise with age-related considerations in the treatment of older IBD patients.
IBD in the Elderly: An Increasing Problem
The presentation of IBD in the elderly is different from that in younger people. Symptoms like diarrhoea, weight loss, or abdominal pain may be attributed to other age-related conditions, thus delaying the diagnosis. Also, older patients are likely to have other diseases (e.g. diabetes, cardiovascular disease) and poorer physiological function, which makes treatment more challenging. When surgery is required, it has to be taken into account that older patients have slower recovery and are at a higher risk of complications.
This change in the demographic factors reveals the necessity of surgical gerontologists – surgeons who are able to work with the challenges of operating on the elderly. They are conversant with measures that prevent excessive invasion, improve the patient’s preparation and recovery after surgery, and work with geriatricians to create a plan that addresses the patient’s overall health status.
Surgical Gerontology in the Management of IBD
Hence, in elderly IBD patients, surgery may be required for severe inflammation, obstruction, or complications such as perforation. However, this is not a straightforward decision to perform surgery. Surgical gerontologists consider the following factors in the assessment process:
- Frailty and functional status
- Effect of other diseases
- Impact on long term quality of life
New and better ways of performing surgery such as laparoscopic surgery can help in reducing the healing time and the risks which are more beneficial to the elderly. The post surgical care also embraces nutritional support, physical activity and psychological care which are important for aging populations. The following is an example of a doctor who is embracing this kind of care: Dr. Patta Radhakrishna: Leading the Way in Comprehensive IBD Management in Chennai
At MGM Malar Hospital, Adyar, India, Dr. Patta Radhakrishna is a surgeon who understands surgery as well as the needs of the elderly. His approach is in line with the principles of surgical gerontology:
- Patient-centred care: Developing a plan for the surgery based on the patient’s current health status.
- Non-invasive methods: Utilizing laparoscopy to improve the patient’s outcome.
- Networks and partnerships: Working with geriatricians, nutritionists, and mental health specialists.
Beyond the operating room, Dr. Patta has his Facebook group, Learning General Surgery, and Continuing Medical Education (CME) initiatives to create awareness and educate patients and other doctors on IBD, especially in the elderly population.
Awareness, Early Intervention, and Hope
Know the Signs: Does your grandfather or grandmother have persistent diarrhoea, weight loss, or abdominal pain? Consult a physician – IBD is not a disease of young people only.”
Investigate Treatment Options: Today’s medicine offers a lot of hope, and this comes in the form of biologics, surgery and much more. Consult Dr. Patta at Dr. Pattas Gastro Center or MGM Malar Hospital.
Get Involved: Check out Dr. Patta’s Facebook group, Learning General Surgery for more information, support and the latest updates on IBD care.
Conclusion
Surgical gerontologists such as Dr. Patta Radhakrishna remain crucial in managing IBD in the elderly given their understanding, skills, and creativity. Through educating the community and advocating for proper and appropriate management, it is possible to change the way IBD is managed in elderly people. This is an attempt to bridge the knowledge–action gap so that no patient with IBD feels like he/she is fighting the disease alone.
Act Now: Make an appointment at Dr. Pattas Gastro Center or contact MGM Malar Hospital. Check out Learning General Surgery and get more information – no matter what the age, everyone needs good care.
