SURGERY

[JagBR]

How old is "too" old to have surgery? I know a 90 year old diagnosed with a small bowel obstruction. Her doctor wants surgery. Are there other options?

 

[CriTAUcal]

How old is "too" old to have surgery? I know a 90 year old diagnosed with a small bowel obstruction. Her doctor wants surgery. Are there other options?

I would that you're never too old for surgery, as long as your heart and other vital organs can handle your body being cut open.

Sometimes surgeries are not approved because people have other existing conditions that could threaten their lives once put on an operating table. You should always ask about other options, but if there none and something needs to be corrected, consider the surgery. Of course with anything (even as small as dental surgery), there are risks and even death. It happens. So, it's best to be fully aware of the chances you're taking. If you're still uncomfortable, get a second doctor's opinion.