What is the focus of surgical palliation in cancer care?

Surgical palliation in cancer care is primarily aimed at relieving symptoms that burden the patient, rather than attempting to cure the underlying disease. The focus is on improving the quality of life by addressing issues such as obstruction, pain, or other distressing symptoms caused by the cancer. This form of management enhances comfort and may significantly aid in daily functioning even if the cancer itself is not eradicated.

Other options, such as completely eliminating cancerous tissue or preparing patients for chemotherapy, would typically be associated with curative surgical interventions rather than palliative approaches. Preventing complications from future surgeries is also a procedural focus but does not capture the essence of palliative care, which is primarily centered on symptom relief and quality of life enhancement for patients facing advanced or terminal cancer.