Invasive Devices in Respiratory Palliative Surgery: A Critical Appraisal and Synthesis of Preventive Strategies

Abstract

Introduction: Preventing healthcare-associated infections is a cornerstone of patient safety. In the context of respiratory palliative surgery for immunocompromised patients with a guarded prognosis, applying standard protocols requires an adapted approach.

Objective: To identify, through evidence synthesis, the most effective and lowest-burden strategies to prevent infections related to invasive medical devices (e.g., central venous catheters, urinary catheters, airway devices, pleural drains) in respiratory palliative surgery.

Methods: Qualitative review within the health sciences (Infectious Diseases and Clinical/Hospital Epidemiology). Study selection was performed independently by two reviewers; references were managed with reference-management software, titles and abstracts were screened, and inclusion/exclusion criteria were applied rigorously.

Results: The implementation of standardized insertion and maintenance protocols for invasive medical devices in patients undergoing respiratory palliative surgery, individualized assessment of risk–benefit, and early device removal were associated with a reduction in device-related infections. In the airway, subglottic drainage and nurse-led protocols provided additional benefit.

Conclusions: Effective prevention in respiratory palliative surgery requires a holistic, sensitive, and compassionate care plan that combines rigorous infection-control measures. This integrated approach aligns safety with dignity and supports a favorable benefit–burden balance consistent with palliative goals.