Objectives: To describe the goals of treatment, decision-making, incidence, and outcomes of surgical palliation in advanced cancer.
Data sources: Journal articles, research reports, state of the science papers, and clinical guidelines.
Conclusion: Surgical palliation is common in advanced cancer settings, and is indicated primarily in settings where the goals of treatment are focused on quality of life, symptom control, and symptom prevention. More research is needed to guide evidence-based best practices in palliative surgery.
Implications for nursing practice: Oncology nurses practicing in clinical and research settings have a responsibility to arm themselves with knowledge related to the indications and options of palliative procedures, and the impact of surgery on quality of life for patients and families facing advanced cancer.
Keywords: Palliative care; incidence; outcomes; quality of life; surgery.