Revolutionizing Cancer Treatment: A Systemic Review of Anesthesia Innovations in Medical Oncology

Abstract

This systematic review explores the evolving role of anesthesia innovations in medical oncology, focusing on their impact on patient outcomes across various cancer treatment modalities. Recent advancements in anesthesia techniques, including total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA), regional anesthesia, and enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols, have shown significant benefits in both surgical and non-surgical contexts.

Key findings indicate that TIVA consistently demonstrates superior efficacy compared to volatile anesthesia, reducing recovery times by 18-25% and complication rates to as low as 10%. Regional anesthesia has been associated with enhanced pain management, achieving pain scores of 2.0/10 compared to 4.0/10 for controls, and reducing hospital stays by 1-2 days. ERAS protocols exhibit remarkable outcomes, with studies reporting recurrence-free survival rates of 85-87% at five years for colorectal cancer patients and overall survival rates reaching 90%.

Additionally, the review highlights the immune-modulatory effects of these anesthesia techniques, suggesting that TIVA and regional anesthesia may lower pro-inflammatory cytokines and enhance natural killer (NK) cell activity, potentially reducing the risk of cancer recurrence. Despite these promising results, the review identifies significant gaps in the literature, particularly regarding the application of anesthesia in non-surgical procedures such as chemotherapy administration and palliative care interventions.

The findings underscore the necessity for standardized protocols and further research to clarify the mechanisms by which anesthesia influences oncological outcomes. By bridging the gap between anesthesia and oncology, this review advocates for a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to cancer care, emphasizing the critical role of anesthesia in improving treatment efficacy and patient quality of life