The Irish Perioperative OutcomeS (IPOS) Study

The Irish Perioperative OutcomeS (IPOS) Study aims to better understand the factors that influence recovery and outcomes in older adults undergoing major surgery in Ireland. As people live longer and more individuals have multiple long-term health conditions, increasing numbers of older patients require surgical treatment. These patients may be at greater risk of complications after surgery, including infections, heart problems, delirium (confusion), admission to intensive care, and death. This study will collect information from routine medical records of patients aged 60 years and older who undergo major planned or emergency surgery in participating hospitals across Ireland. No changes will be made to patients\' treatment or care, and no additional tests or procedures will be performed as part of the study. Researchers will examine patient characteristics, health conditions, frailty, surgical factors, postoperative complications, and the level of care patients receive after surgery. The study will also evaluate whether access to critical care services and other healthcare resources affects outcomes. The information gathered will help identify factors associated with better and worse surgical outcomes and may highlight opportunities to improve perioperative care for older patients. Findings from the study are expected to support healthcare planning, resource allocation, and quality improvement initiatives aimed at improving the safety and outcomes of surgery for older adults in Ireland.