title: Preparation of the patient for palliative procedures.
abstract: The primary intent of surgical procedures traditionally has been the achievement of cure. Palliative surgery is emerging as an equally legitimate strategy of care; its goals are symptom relief and enhanced quality of life based on the patient's preferences. The key to successful palliative surgery is understanding patient and family dynamics, interdisciplinary team approaches, and producing a consistent and rational treatment plan. Far from condemning a patient, palliative surgery has a potential place in many treatment plans for enhanced quality of life and longevity.
authors.affiliation: Brigham and Women's Hospital, Pain Management Center, 850 Boylston Street, Suite 320, Boston, MA 02467, USA. elross@partners.org
authors.forename: Edgar L
authors.initials: EL
authors.lastname: Ross
authors.forename: Janet
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Abrahm
mesh_terms: D006040:Goals; D006801:Humans; D010166:Palliative Care; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D010348:Patient Care Team; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011788:Quality of Life; D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative