Organ preservation.
OBJECTIVE
To review organ preservation in cancer treatment within the context of organ function, treatment-related acute and late toxicities, outcome data, and quality of life.


METHODS
Published review and research articles, proceedings of conferences, and oncology textbooks.


CONCLUSIONS
The implementation of surgery, with sequential and/or concurrent chemoradiation, has advanced the success of organ preservation in multiple tumor types and organ systems. Integral to the discussion of organ preservation is consideration of quality of life.


CONCLUSIONS
An understanding of organ preservation in cancer treatment will allow oncology nurses to be more effective patient advocates by providing current information that can be integrated into patient care and education.
Maher
K E
KE
Legacy Health System, Portland, OR, USA.
D001005:Anus Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D006801:Humans; D007825:Laryngectomy / Q000379:methods; D015412:Mastectomy, Segmental / Q000379:methods; D008545:Melanoma / Q000532:radiotherapy; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000379:methods; D011468:Prostatectomy / Q000379:methods; D011788:Quality of Life; D014604:Uveal Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy