Changes in Surgical Treatment for Colorectal Cancer during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Strategic Insights -

A study published in the Kosin Medical Journal revealed that there were significant changes in surgical treatment for colorectal cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers from Kosin University Gospel Hospital analyzed the medical records of 757 patients who underwent colorectal cancer surgery between January 2019 and December 2021. The study found that operations for early-stage colorectal cancer decreased, while combined organ resections increased. These changes in surgical treatment for colorectal cancers may impact oncologic outcomes.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study analyzed 757 patients who underwent colorectal cancer surgery at Kosin University Gospel Hospital between January 2019 and December 2021.
  • Patients were divided into two groups: the pre-pandemic group (321 cases, January 2019 to February 2020) and the pandemic group (436 cases, March 2020 to December 2021).
  • No significant differences were found in the diagnostic process (asymptomatic vs. symptomatic), preoperative serum carcinoembryonic antigen level, or surgical treatment patterns.
  • Operations for early-stage colorectal cancer (stages 0 and 1) decreased during the pandemic.
  • Combined organ resections increased during the pandemic.
  • These changes in surgical treatment for colorectal cancers may impact oncologic outcomes.
  • Further long-term follow-up studies are necessary to assess the effects of the pandemic on colorectal cancer outcomes.
  • Yeajin Moon, Seung Hun Lee, and Seung Hyun Lee contributed to this research.

Statistics:

  • 757 patients were analyzed in the study.
  • 321 patients underwent surgery during the pre-pandemic period (January 2019 to February 2020).
  • 436 patients underwent surgery during the pandemic period (March 2020 to December 2021).
  • 40% of patients underwent single organ resection, while 60% underwent combined organ resection.

Sources:

  • Kosin Medical Journal, 2025, 40(3):207-212.
  • Kosin University College of Medicine.
  • https://doi-org.sdpl.idm.oclc.org/10.7180/kmj.25.116.