Surgical Management of Systemic Sclerosis: Review of Literature

Systemic sclerosis is a rare, progressive, multisystem autoimmune disease that can affect the skin, digestive system, internal organs, joints, and hands. Pharmacological treatment remains the standard of care; however, it does not always adequately address all the distressing symptoms experienced by patients. This study aimed to review and summarise the available surgical options for systemic sclerosis. A comprehensive literature review was conducted using a broad search strategy to encompass the wide-ranging aspects of the disease. Systemic sclerosis is associated with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations. Surgical interventions have been attempted for many of these, with the goals of improving patients' quality of life, reducing pain, and lowering disability. The most common procedures performed in patients with systemic sclerosis include anti-reflux operations and other gastrointestinal surgeries, various hand surgeries, organ transplantation, and selected orthopaedic or plastic procedures. Available evidence suggests that, although systemic sclerosis presents additional challenges in surgical management, it is not an absolute contraindication when surgery is indicated. Surgical management remains a valuable option in systemic sclerosis, particularly when conservative treatments are insufficient. Organ-specific procedures can improve quality of life and, in selected cases, be life-saving. By comprehensively reviewing the available surgical literature, this study may assist clinicians in considering operative approaches where appropriate. Further research is needed to standardise reporting and define clear surgical indications in patients with systemic sclerosis.