Palliative care

Despite the best surgical management some malignant tumors will recur and metastasize.

It is unlikely that a recurring malignant tumor can be cured.

A metastatic and/or recurrent malignant tumor should be considered for palliative care. Although surgical options are available, those will be more directed at relieving symptoms and improving quality of the remaining life.

A multidisciplinary approach including medical oncology, radiation oncology, pain medicine, and surgical oncology should be put in place for these difficult cases.

Many scientific trials are open for this patient population.