Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America 10(1): 173-188, 1996.

Integrating medical and surgical treatments in gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and biliary obstruction in patients with cancer.

Fainsinger RL

Abstract:

Although local expertise needs to be considered, the following general guidelines for the palliation of malignant biliary obstruction have been proposed: (1) patients in good general condition with small tumors should undergo laparotomy to assess resectability and undergo surgical bypass; (2) patients with advanced disease and poor general condition are suitable for endoscopic stenting to reduce jaundice, pruritus, and risk of cholangitis; (3) patients with poor cognition and limited life expectancy should be managed pharmacologically as appropriate; and (4) research is required to assess optimal management for patients between these extremes; however, clinicians can use the previously described guidelines to make these difficult management decisions.

This is a service of:

Rheinische Friedrich- Wilhelms- Universität Bonn Medical Center

---