Recent advances in malignant bowel obstruction: an interface of old and new

Malignant bowel obstruction continues to be a difficult problem for patients with abdominal and pelvic primary tumors and tumors originating in other sites. The main treatment options consist of surgery, stenting, and pharmacotherapy. Despite recent advances, the impact of available treatment modalities on symptom control, longevity, quality of life, and associated health care costs have not been evaluated rigorously. This article reviews the available data and suggests an approach to the management of this challenging patient population.