Gynecologic Cancer Surgery

(Ovarian, Uterine, and Cervical Cancers)

Gynecologic cancers affect the female reproductive organs and require specialized surgical care that balances effective cancer control with the patient’s overall health, reproductive goals, and quality of life. Our surgical oncology team collaborates closely with gynecologic and medical oncology specialists to deliver personalized, evidence-based treatment for women facing these conditions.

– Cancers Treated

We manage surgical care for a broad range of gynecologic malignancies, including:

1. Ovarian cancer (including epithelial, germ cell, and stromal tumors)

2. Endometrial (Uterine) cancer

3. Cervical cancer

4. Rare tumors such as fallopian tube carcinoma or uterine sarcomas

Each cancer varies in presentation and behavior, so tailored surgical planning is essential.

– Surgical Procedures Offered

Depending on the type and stage of cancer, we offer a wide range of surgical interventions:

1. Total Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus, often including the cervix.

2. Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy (BSO): Removal of both ovaries and fallopian tubes, frequently performed alongside hysterectomy for ovarian or uterine cancers.

3. Staging and Lymph Node Dissection: Pelvic and para-aortic lymph node sampling or removal to assess disease spread, particularly in ovarian and endometrial cancer.

4. Omentectomy: Removal of the omentum, especially in ovarian cancer where it can harbor microscopic disease.

5. Debulking (Cytoreductive) Surgery: For advanced ovarian cancer, aimed at removing as much tumor as possible. Optimal debulking improves response to chemotherapy and survival outcomes.

6. Radical Hysterectomy: For early-stage cervical cancer, includes removal of adjacent tissue and upper vaginal cuff.

7. Fertility-Sparing Surgery: In selected early-stage cases (especially in young patients), procedures such as unilateral oophorectomy or trachelectomy (removal of the cervix but not the uterus) may preserve the ability to conceive.

– Multidisciplinary and Personalized Care

All cases are discussed in a multidisciplinary tumor board involving:

1. Surgical and gynecologic oncologists

2. Medical and radiation oncologists

3. Pathologists and radiologists

4. Fertility and psychological counselors

Preoperative workup includes pelvic ultrasound, CT/MRI, tumor markers (e.g., CA-125 for ovarian cancer), and endometrial or cervical biopsy when indicated.

– Postoperative Care and Recovery

After surgery, patients are closely monitored for:

1. Pain management and wound healing

2. Return of bowel and bladder function

3. Hormonal considerations (if ovaries are removed)

4. Need for adjuvant therapy such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy

5. Psychological and fertility counseling

Surveillance involves regular exams and imaging, especially for ovarian and uterine cancers which may recur.

Gynecologic cancer surgery demands technical expertise and compassionate care tailored to each woman’s unique condition and life stage. Whether it’s a fertility-sparing procedure for a young woman with early cervical cancer or extensive cytoreductive surgery for advanced ovarian disease, our focus remains on safety, cure, and long-term quality of life. With a collaborative, evidence-based approach, we strive to offer the highest standard of care for gynecologic malignancies.