General Medical Information

Age

David J. Terris

Cell proliferation and metabolic activities decline with age, so that collagen synthesis is reduced, immune responsiveness is diminished, and reepithelialization and angiogenesis are delayed compared with younger patients. As a result, the incidence of wound dehiscence after surgery increases threefold in patients over 60 years of age. This association has particular importance, because many patients who undergo head and neck cancer resections fall into that age category. This increased risk of wound complications is frequently exacerbated when tissues have been irradiated.