Socioeconomic status impacts colorectal surgery outcomes and recovery

Disparities in perioperative outcomes linked to socioeconomic status and race/ethnicity were revealed in a study of 1,519 elective colorectal surgery patients. Low socioeconomic status was associated with decreased adherence to preoperative measures, longer hospital stays (4 vs. 3 days, p<0.001), and higher rates of infectious complications (OR 2.46). Among racial groups, Black patients experienced poorer preoperative education and increased odds of respiratory complications (OR 4.11). Adjustments to care protocols could enhance recovery equity.