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This podcast series explores the complexities of malignant bowel obstruction (MBO) in gynecologic cancer patients, offering expert insights into diagnosis, decision-making, ethics, surgical and non-surgical management strategies, and future directions in care. Each episode is hosted the IGCS Education Palliative Care workgroup co-chairs, Dr. Peter Grant (Australia) and Dr. Anisa Mburu (Kenya) and features an expert, guest speaker sharing their knowledge on MBO.

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Episode 1

The Big Picture – What Is Malignant Bowel Obstruction?

Dr. Stephanie Lheureux (Canada) introduces MBO in gynecologic cancers, discussing through a case presentation and diagnostic challenges, with an emphasis on ovarian cancer and quality of life.

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Stephanie Lheureux, MD
Princess Margaret Cancer Centre
University of Toronto
Canada

Episode 2

Decision-Making, Ethics, and Communication

Dr. Eduardo Burera (USA) explores the ethical and emotional complexities of MBO care, highlighting shared decision-making, difficult conversations, and the role of the multidisciplinary palliative care team.

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Eduardo D. Bruera, MD
The University of Texas 
MD Anderson Cancer Center
USA


Episode 3

Management Strategies – To Operate or Not?

Dr. Aditi Bhatt (India) discusses non-surgical strategies for managing malignant bowel obstruction, highlighting symptom control, medication use, and the importance of tailoring care based on the site and cause of obstruction.

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Aditi Bhatt, MS, MCh.
Shalby Cancer and Research Institute
India


Episode 4

Surgical Interventions

Dr. Glauco Baiocchi (Brazil) shares when surgery is indicated for MBO, reviewing specific procedures, risks and benefits, and how to apply current evidence to guide surgical decision-making.

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Glauco Baiocchi, MD, PhD
AC Camargo Cancer Center
Brazil


Episode 5

End of Life Decisions, Conflict, Care for the Care Team

Dr. Michael Pearl (USA) discusses end of life decisions, conflicts, and how multidisciplinary teams can support patients, caregivers, and team members in managing unresolved or complex MBO cases.

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Michael Pearl, MD
Dartmouth Health
USA