Which type of surgery is performed to relieve pain or other symptoms but not to cure cancer?

Palliative surgery is specifically designed to relieve symptoms or improve the quality of life for patients who are facing serious illnesses like cancer. Unlike curative surgery, which aims to remove a tumor and eliminate disease, palliative surgery focuses on alleviating distressing symptoms, such as pain, bleeding, or obstruction caused by the tumor. This type of surgery is integral to the holistic approach to cancer care, emphasizing comfort and support for the patient rather than attempting to cure the disease.

In contrast, curative surgery seeks to eradicate cancer completely, while preventative surgery is conducted to reduce the risk of developing cancer in individuals with a high likelihood of cancer due to genetic factors or family history. Reconstructive surgery aims to restore appearance and function after the removal of cancerous tissues but does not specifically focus on symptom relief. Palliative surgery fills an essential role in managing the side effects of cancer and improving the overall well-being of patients throughout their treatment journey.