Improving surgical decision-making for older patients by predicting long-term independence after surgery

Improving surgical decision-making by measuring and predicting long-term loss of independence after surgery

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION · NIH-11252780

This study is looking at how surgery affects the long-term independence of older patients, especially those who are frail, so that doctors can make better decisions and help patients understand what to expect after their surgery.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11252780 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the decision-making process for surgeons by measuring and predicting how surgery affects the long-term independence of older patients, particularly frail individuals. It aims to fill the gap in understanding the quality of life outcomes after surgery, which are often overlooked in traditional surgical registries that only track short-term results. By assessing factors that contribute to postoperative loss of independence, the study seeks to provide valuable insights that can help tailor surgical approaches to better align with patients' values and needs. The research will involve collecting and analyzing data on patient outcomes and developing communication strategies to effectively convey risks and benefits to patients and their families.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly frail individuals, who are considering surgery and are concerned about maintaining their independence postoperatively.

Not a fit: Patients who are not frail or those who do not have concerns about their independence after surgery may not receive significant benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved surgical outcomes and quality of life for older patients by ensuring that surgical decisions are better aligned with their long-term independence goals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that preoperative screening for frailty can lead to better surgical outcomes, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.