SURGICAL FUTILITY: A NEW WAY TO MEASURE THE USEFULNESS OF SURGICAL HPB PROCEDURES

Abstract

Background: Surgical futility refers to procedures that are unlikely to achieve their intended benefits, often raising ethical concerns regarding the appropriateness of undertaking such interventions.

Objective: This narrative review aims to explore the phenomenon of surgical futility specifically within the realm of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary surgery, identifying the implications for clinical practice and patient care.

Methods: A comprehensive review of the existing literature on surgical futility was conducted, focusing on definitions, challenges in assessment, and contextual factors that influence surgical outcomes in Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary procedures.

Results: Defining futile or ineffective surgical interventions poses significant challenges due to the complexity of factors involved. In cancer patients, surgeries that yield no benefit can result from incomplete procedures, severe postoperative complications, or rapid disease recurrence. Moreover, the criteria for measuring futility may need to vary for emergency surgeries, which may not offer the anticipated advantages.

Conclusion: The current literature on surgical futility remains limited, highlighting the need for further research in this area. Addressing surgical futility in Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary surgery could enhance decision-making processes, reduce healthcare costs, and alleviate emotional distress for patients and their families when surgeries do not achieve their intended outcomes.