Definition of Watchful waiting

Watchful waiting, also referred to as watch and wait (WAW), expectant management, observation and masterly inactivity, is an approach to a medical problem in which time is allowed to pass before further medical intervention or therapy is considered. During this time, repeated testing may be performed. Often watchful waiting is recommended in situations with a high likelihood of self-resolution or situations where the risks of intervention or therapy may outweigh the benefits.