Preoperative Sarcopenia and Surgical Outcomes in Colorectal Cancer Patients

Colorectal cancer is the third most common malignant neoplasm worldwide and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Muscle mass loss in oncology patients is most often the result of cancer-related malnutrition. Sarcopenia is a progressive and generalized skeletal muscle disorder associated with increased likelihood of adverse outcomes such as physical disability, poor quality of life, and death. It is characterized by low muscle strength, low muscle quantity and quality, and low physical performance. Sarcopenia is highly prevalent in older adults and those with chronic diseases, including cancer. In the context of colorectal cancer, preoperative sarcopenia has been linked to increased postoperative complications, longer hospital stays, and reduced survival. The aim of this prospective observational study is to evaluate the prevalence of preoperative sarcopenia and postoperative outcomes in patients with colorectal cancer, using validated methods to assess muscle strength, muscle mass, and physical performance.