Management Strategies for Malignant Bowel Obstruction in Cancer Patients: A Comprehensive Literature Review

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.1594902408109

• Palavras-chave: Obstrução Intestinal Maligna; Manejo do Câncer; Cuidados Paliativos; Tratamento Cirúrgico vs. Não Cirúrgico; Qualidade de Vida em Pacientes com Câncer.

• Keywords: Malignant Bowel Obstruction; Cancer Management; Palliative Care; Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Treatment; Quality of Life in Cancer Patients

• Abstract: Objectives: This literature review aims to analyze the management strategies for malignant bowel obstruction (MBO) in cancer patients, comparing the outcomes of surgical and non-surgical approaches, evaluating the effectiveness of palliative care, and examining the impact of prognostic factors on survival and quality of life. The review seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of current treatment methods and identify potential areas for improvement and future research. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across multiple databases to identify relevant studies addressing the management of MBO in cancer patients. Studies were selected based on inclusion criteria that required a focus on surgical or non-surgical treatment strategies, palliative care, and patient outcomes. A total of 15 studies were included in the final analysis, covering surgical and pharmacological interventions, complications, survival rates, and quality of life outcomes. The selected literature spans randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and retrospective cohort studies. Results: Surgical management of MBO can offer symptom relief and improve survival in select patients, particularly those with localized obstruction and good health. However, surgery carries significant risks, including high rates of postoperative complications and re-obstruction. Non-surgical approaches, including the use of octreotide, corticosteroids, and other pharmacological agents, were found to be effective in symptom management, particularly in patients with poor prognostic factors. Palliative care plays a central role in providing comfort, reducing symptoms, and improving quality of life for patients who are not candidates for surgery. The review highlights that prognostic factors such as cancer type, disease progression, and overall patient health significantly influence treatment outcomes and quality of life. Conclusion: The management of MBO in cancer patients requires an individualized approach that balances the risks and benefits of surgical and non-surgical treatments. Surgery may provide benefit in carefully selected patients, but non-surgical management is often the preferred strategy for those with advanced disease. Palliative care, focused on symptom relief and quality of life, should be integrated into all treatment plans. Future research should focus on refining treatment criteria, improving pharmacological therapies, and developing standardized measures that prioritize quality of life outcomes.