Abstract
Background: Preoperative optimization has emerged as a critical strategy in enhancing surgical outcomes, particularly for oncological patients. By addressing modifiable risk factors before surgery, healthcare providers aim to improve postoperative outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a preoperative optimization program on postoperative outcomes and improvements in modifiable risk factors (anemia, malnutrition, smoking, and endocrine management) among oncology patients undergoing elective surgery. Methods: A retrospective pretest-posttest study was conducted including all oncology patients who underwent elective general surgery at King Hussein Cancer Center between January 2020 and December 2021. The preoperative optimization program was launched in May 2020 and fully implemented by December 2020. Program elements included anemia management, nutritional support, smoking cessation, and glycemic control. Patients were divided into pre-implementation and post-implementation cohorts, and outcomes were assessed at baseline, immediately preoperatively, and 30 days postoperatively. Results: The sample included 503 individuals, 53.9% had preoperative anemia, 15.5% had malnutrition, 40.6% were smokers, and 41.6% had uncontrolled DM. The optimized group demonstrated significant improvements in hemoglobin, albumin, and smoking cessation rates. In contrast, the control group showed worsening hemoglobin and albumin levels over the same period. Serious complications (Clavien-Dindo III-IV) were significantly more frequent in the control group (p = 0.006). The likelihood of postoperative complications among the control group was significantly higher than the optimized group (OR: 2.2, 95%CI: 1.5-3.2, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Implementation of a comprehensive preoperative optimization program significantly improved modifiable risk factors and reduced serious postoperative complications, highlighting its value for adoption in oncology surgical care.