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World J Gastrointest Endosc. Jun 16, 2014; 6(6): 220-226
Published online Jun 16, 2014. doi: 10.4253/wjge.v6.i6.220
Published online Jun 16, 2014. doi: 10.4253/wjge.v6.i6.220
Performing colonoscopy in elderly and very elderly patients: Risks, costs and benefits
Otto S Lin, Digestive Disease Institute, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
Otto S Lin, Gastroenterology Division, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
Author contributions: Lin OS wrote the manuscript.
Correspondence to: Otto S Lin, MD, MSc, Gastroenterology Division, University of Washington School of Medicine, C3-Gas, 1100 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101, United States. otto.lin@vmmc.org
Telephone: +1-206-6257373 Fax: +1-206-2236379
Received: December 22, 2013
Revised: February 18, 2014
Accepted: May 16, 2014
Published online: June 16, 2014
Revised: February 18, 2014
Accepted: May 16, 2014
Published online: June 16, 2014
Core Tip
Core tip: Although colonoscopic yield increases with age, the potential benefits in elderly patients decrease because of shorter life expectancy and more frequent comorbidities. Colonoscopy in very elderly patients carries a greater risk of complications and morbidity than in younger patients. Thus, colonoscopy in elderly patients should be performed only after careful consideration of potential benefits, risks and patient preferences.