Palliative care of older glioblastoma patients in neurosurgery

Purpose The care of older neurosurgical patients at the end life is a particularly demanding challenge. Especially, the specific needs of very old patients with glioblastoma at the end of life are at risk of being deprived of adequate care. Methods Based on a narrative literature review, this article aims to explore key issues of the thematic intersection of geriatric glioblastoma patients, palliative care and neurosurgery. Results and discussion Four key issues were identified: patient-centeredness (need orientation and decision making), early palliative care, advance care planning, and multi-professionalism. Possible benefits and barriers are highlighted with regard to integrating these concepts into neurosurgery. Conclusions Palliative care complements neurosurgical care of geriatric glioblastoma multiforme patients to optimise care for this highly vulnerable category of patients.