A Systematic Review of Literature to Assess the Role and Utilization of Palliative Care in Vascular Surgery Patients.
Aditya Safaya, Ahsan Zil-E-Ali, Udit Choubey et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review evaluated the role and utilization of palliative care (PC) in high-risk vascular surgery patients. It analyzed 10 studies and found that PC utilization was low, with rates of 2.7% to 12% across various conditions. Consultations often occurred late, with a median of 3-17 days before death, but were associated with reduced in-hospital mortality (OR ≈ 0.25-0.49).
Key findings
- Palliative care utilization was low, ranging from 2.7% after below-knee amputation to 12% after major amputations.
- Consultations typically occurred a median of 3-17 days before death.
- Palliative care was linked to reduced in-hospital mortality with an odds ratio of approximately 0.25-0.49.
- Predictors of referral included advanced age, frailty, and high comorbidity burden.
Why it matters
Understanding the underutilization and timing of palliative care in vascular surgery can help clinicians improve patient outcomes. Early integration of palliative care may enhance symptom management and align treatment with patient goals, particularly in high-risk populations.
What to keep in mind
All studies reviewed displayed moderate-to-high risk of bias, primarily due to confounding and selection issues.