title: The scope of surgical oncology.
abstract: Surgical oncology, as a subspecialty within general surgery, has slowly evolved as our knowledge of cancer and its treatment had advanced. Determining the proper number and roles of surgical oncologists in cancer management, and defining the preparation of the surgical oncologist for these roles are incomplete projects at present. The heritage of surgical oncology, its current status, and perceived future needs for optimal development are described.
mesh_terms: D005544:Forecasting; D013502:General Surgery / Q000266:history / Q000639:trends*; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D008495:Medical Oncology / Q000266:history / Q000639:trends*; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000534:rehabilitation / Q000628:therapy; D010166:Palliative Care