Visceral Surgery: Treatment Options in Palliative Care

Abstract

Background: Surgery, especially visceral surgery plays a crucial role in palliative care and is part of the interdisciplinary treatment in advanced malignancies with reduced live expectancy. Methods: An overview to document the up to date knowledge in the field of palliative surgery by reviewing and researching selective databases (Pubmed, Cochrane Library) and selected journals. Results: Visceral surgery is a significant part of palliative care. Surgery is indicated in the emergency situation, in individual cases and when alternatives have been exhausted. Aim of the surgery is long-term and rapid control of symptoms, increasing the quality of life and decreasing the hospital stay. Conclusion: The option of visceral surgery in advanced malignancies should be considered in each case individually due to the different tumor characteristics and localization. After critical reviewing, surgery can be indicated and must be integrated into a network of palliative care with available add-on therapies.