What is the primary goal of palliative surgery?

The primary goal of palliative surgery is to relieve symptoms associated with a disease rather than to cure it. This type of surgery is particularly focused on enhancing the quality of life for patients who may be experiencing significant discomfort or disability due to their medical condition. By alleviating symptoms such as pain, obstruction, or difficulty breathing, palliative surgery can help improve daily functioning and comfort, allowing patients to participate more fully in their lives.

In contrast, removing a tumor is more aligned with curative intentions, aiming to eliminate the disease itself rather than just manage its symptoms. Improving function may also be a consideration in some surgical interventions, but the primary focus of palliative efforts is on symptom relief. Diagnosing a condition typically involves various investigative procedures rather than surgical intervention, especially when the goal is not curative.