Management of malignant bowel obstruction in advanced cancer: a brief review.
Malignant bowel obstruction is an odious complication of numerous malignancies, most notably ovarian and colorectal cancers. It reduces quality of life and promotes considerable physical and emotional suffering, precluding a peaceful and comfortable death and deterring appropriate familial bereavement. Palliative management of bowel obstruction includes operative and nonoperative strategies, with therapeutic selection based on patient preference and anticipated life expectancy. Available therapies include laparotomy, enteral intubation, intravenous and subcutaneous hydration, parenteral nutrition, and pharmacologic agents.
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Department of Geriatrics and Extended Care, VA Medical Center, Phoenix, Arizona 85310, USA.