[SURGICAL PALLIATION FOR PANCREATIC CANCER]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Gastroenterology
• Palliative Medicine

Background:

• Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a highly fatal malignancy, often diagnosed at advanced stages.
• High recurrence rates necessitate effective palliative strategies.
• Palliative care aims to alleviate symptoms and enhance the quality of life for PC patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current invasive palliation techniques for advanced pancreatic cancer.
• To discuss the advantages and disadvantages of various palliative interventions.
• To highlight advancements in technology for managing PC symptoms.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on invasive palliation techniques for advanced pancreatic cancer.
• Description of techniques for gastric/duodenal obstruction, obstructive jaundice, and epigastric pain.
• Evaluation of endoscopic stenting, bypass surgery, and celiac plexus neurolysis.

Main Results:

• Endoscopic stenting is efficient for gastric/duodenal obstruction and obstructive jaundice, offering low complications and improved quality of life.
• Bypass surgery is suitable for patients with longer life expectancy or when endoscopic stenting fails.
• Celiac plexus neurolysis is the primary treatment for managing abdominal pain in PC.

Conclusions:

• Invasive palliative techniques are crucial for managing advanced pancreatic cancer symptoms.
• Patient-specific factors and disease status are vital for effective palliative care planning.
• Technological advancements continue to improve outcomes in pancreatic cancer palliation.