Current cancer therapies - a guide for perioperative physicians

Cancer is expected to be the leading cause of death around the world. New cancer therapies have improved survival but they can also lead to complications and toxicity. In this article, the effects of modern anti-cancer therapies are reviewed. The perioperative effects of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and experimental therapies in relation to anaesthesia are discussed. Common and rare complications are summarised as is advice for optimal treatment of the cancer patient in the perioperative period.