Elderly mother aged 92 just diagnosed with colon cancer - need to decide if she has an operation to remove the tumour
My 92 year old elderly mother had a CT colonoscopy a couple of weeks ago. We were informed two days later she had a thickening in the bowel by her consultant who would arrange a colonoscopy to investigate further.
We then called into the hospital late last week - we weren't told in advance who we were seeing - and were informed she had a cancerous lesion/growth which could cause a blockage in her bowel if not removed - the timescales on that happening are unclear. It appears to be localised and hasn't spread.
We have been asked to decide early this week if my mother should have a right hemicolectomy to remove this - but have been informed there is an up to 15-20% chance the op might not be successful. But on the other hand if she doesn't there is a risk the growth could lead to a bowel obstruction and an emergency hospital visit/and operation which would be more traumatic and risky.
My mother is mobile with a walking stick and currently looks after herself at home but has the usual comorbidity issues for someone her age including high blood pressure and heart disease - so the operation is risky.
We really don't know what decision to make for the best - palliative care/support at home or a major operation that might succeed or might cause complications that end her life earlier.
I accept this forum can't offer medical advice but we are really struggling to decide what is best for her. So would welcome any thoughts/experiences people might have.
Thank you!