RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Acute Surgical Emergencies in Patients at or Near the End of Life JF Ochsner Journal JO Ochsner J FD O. P. Jindal Global University SP 338 OP 341 VO 11 IS 4 A1 Michael C Townsend YR 2011 UL http://www.ochsnerjournal.org/content/11/4/338.abstract AB Patients with advanced or incurable preexisting illnesses often develop acute surgical emergencies. The decision to proceed with aggressive surgical intervention or provide comfort measures and symptomatic relief is often difficult. This article provides an organized overview of the multiple considerations required to produce optimal patient outcome.