Tailoring Perioperative Care for the Aging Population in Low-Resource Settings: Balancing Surgical Innovation with Anesthetic Safety
Habiblah Jagunmolu*, Emmanuel Oyetola, Samuel Oyelude, Precious Adegbosin, Yusuff Lawal, Samson Fakojo, Goodness Fagbemi, Yusuff Olaore, Dhikrat Ajibade, Kamil Ajagbe, Muminat Jubreel, Dorcas Olapido and Abdullah Oseni
ABSTRACT
Background: As the world’s population grows, the percentage of elderly people also increases. With the adult population aging, the prevalence of surgical procedures among adults aged 65 years and older is rising, thereby placing increased pressure on healthcare systems. Although surgery can enhance quality of life and results, aftercare morbidity and mortality are high among older adults having surgery, especially those who are frail. In low-resource settings, where safe perioperative care is hindered by inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of workforce, and limited anesthetic capacity, the risks for elderly patients are increased.
Objective: This study review aims to examine perioperative care in the aging population within Low-Resource Settings and explore strategies for balancing
surgical innovation with anesthetic safety.
Method: A literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar to identify the relevant studies on perioperative care, Aging population, Low-resource setting, Anesthetic safety, and Surgical innovation in low-resource settings.
Result: Findings indicate that the safety of anesthesia in high-income countries today cannot be compared with low-resource settings. Inadequate infrastructure, shortages of anesthesia providers, and a lack of well-trained anesthesia providers are major obstacles to patient safety. The cost of interventions and a lack of resources were the two most frequently mentioned implementation obstacles. Surgical services are impacted by these system limitations, especially for older adults and other populations.
Conclusion: This study emphasizes the significance of a noticeable balance between surgical innovation and anesthetic safety while also improving knowledge of perioperative care for older adults in low-resource settings. To improve perioperative outcomes, multidisciplinary management must be strengthened. As a result, anesthesia and surgical services need to be provided safely in addition to being accessible
