DefinePK

Research Objective

To provide a historical perspective and describe the functionality of Tumor Boards, specifically at Dr. Akbar Niazi Teaching Hospital, Islamabad.

Methodology

This is an editorial piece that reviews the historical development and current practice of multidisciplinary tumor boards. It draws upon existing literature and describes the implementation and operation of tumor board meetings at Dr. Akbar Niazi Teaching Hospital.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD;
  A["Historical Review of Tumor Boards"] --> B["Description of Tumor Board Functionality"];
  B --> C["Implementation at Dr. Akbar Niazi Teaching Hospital"];
  C --> D["Discussion of Impact and Future Advancement"];                    

Discussion

The editorial highlights the evolution of tumor boards from an educational tool to a crucial component of modern cancer care. It emphasizes the collaborative nature of these meetings, where diverse specialists contribute to optimal patient management. The establishment of tumor boards at Dr. Akbar Niazi Teaching Hospital is presented as a significant step towards advancing cancer research, registry, and operative oncology within the institution.

Key Findings

- Multidisciplinary approaches to cancer care, formalized as tumor boards, have evolved significantly since their initial description in 1975 and formal implementation in 1997.
- Tumor boards are now considered the gold standard for cancer care, involving a collaborative exchange of expertise among various medical professionals.
- Tumor board meetings at Dr. Akbar Niazi Teaching Hospital officially began in November 2021, with weekly or fortnightly meetings held, discussing hundreds of cases.

Conclusion

Tumor boards are essential for comprehensive cancer care, facilitating evidence-based decision-making and coordinated patient management. The implementation at Dr. Akbar Niazi Teaching Hospital represents a commitment to high-quality cancer care and a foundation for future advancements.

Fact Check

- The formal clinical implementation of a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care began in 1997. (Confirmed by text)
- Tumor Board meetings at Dr. Akbar Niazi Teaching Hospital officially began in November 2021. (Confirmed by text)
- Approximately 45 tumor board meetings have been conducted at Dr. Akbar Niazi Teaching Hospital to date. (Confirmed by text)

Mind Map