Surgical Oncology

Surgical oncology is an umbrella term encompassing all surgical treatments of tumors. Surgical oncologists are trained to perform a wide range of surgical procedures to remove cancerous tumors, as well as to diagnose and stage cancer through biopsies and other diagnostic procedures. Surgeons are trained doctors in the corresponding field of medicine. Depending on the location an oncological surgeon may be a gynecologist, general surgeon, urologist etc. Surgical oncologists work closely with other members of the cancer care team, including medical oncology professionals (who treat cancer with chemotherapy and other medications), radiation oncologists (who use radiation therapy to treat cancer), and other specialists, to develop a comprehensive treatment plan for each patient.

Surgical oncology is an important aspect of cancer care because it can often be the most effective way to remove cancerous tumors and achieve a complete cure or long-term remission. However, surgery also carries risks and potential complications. It is important for patients to understand the workings of surgical oncology by consulting and conversing with their healthcare team.

 

What are the Surgical Oncology Diagnostic Methods?

Surgical oncology is the branch of medicine that deals with the surgical management of cancer. The diagnostic methods for surgical oncology may include:

1. Biopsy: A biopsy involves the removal of a small sample of tissue from the suspected cancerous area, which is then examined under a microscope to determine if it is cancerous.
2. Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI, ultrasound, and PET scans can provide detailed images of the body to identify any abnormal growths or tumors.
3. Blood tests: Certain blood tests, such as tumor markers or genetic tests, may be used to help diagnose cancer or to determine the best course of treatment.
4. Endoscopy: An endoscopy involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light on the end into the body to examine the inside of organs or cavities, such as the colon, stomach, or lungs.
5. Fine needle aspiration (FNA): FNA is a type of biopsy that uses a thin needle to extract a sample of tissue from the suspected cancerous area.
6. Sentinel lymph node biopsy: This type of biopsy is commonly used in cases of breast cancer or melanoma. It involves injecting a radioactive substance or dye into the area of the tumor to identify the lymph nodes that the cancer may have spread to, and then removing these lymph nodes for examination.

These diagnostic methods are often used in combination to confirm a cancer diagnosis, determine the stage of the cancer, and help develop a treatment plan. It's important to note that early detection is key in the successful management of cancer, so if you have any concerns or symptoms, it's important to speak with your doctor as soon as possible.

 

Surgical Oncology - Cancer Types

The surgical management of cancer is the focus of the medical specialty known as surgical oncology. In addition to performing a variety of surgical operations to remove dangerous tumors, surgical oncologists also use biopsies and other diagnostic techniques to identify and stage cancer.

Surgical oncologists are trained to handle a wide range of oncology surgeries, including:

1. Breast cancer: This type of cancer affects the breast tissue and is the most common cancer among women. Surgical oncologists may perform procedures such as a lumpectomy (removal of a breast tumor or cyst) or a mastectomy (removal of the breast) to treat breast cancer.
2. Prostate cancer: This type of cancer affects the prostate gland, a small gland located in the pelvis that produces a fluid that is part of semen. Surgical oncologists may perform a prostatectomy (removal of the prostate gland) to treat prostate cancer.
3. Colorectal cancer: This type of cancer affects the colon (large intestine) and rectum. Surgical oncologists may perform a colectomy (removal of part of the colon) or a proctectomy (removal of the rectum) to treat colorectal cancer.
4. Ovarian cancer: Gynecologic Oncology deals with the type of cancer that affects the ovaries, which are the female reproductive organs that produce eggs. Surgical oncologists may perform a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) or an oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries) to treat ovarian cancer.
5. Lung cancer: This type of cancer affects the lungs, which are the organs responsible for breathing. This is treated by performing an oncology surgery called a lobectomy (removal of a lobe of the lung) or a pneumonectomy (removal of the entire lung) to treat lung cancer.
6. Pancreatic cancer: This type of cancer affects the pancreas. Surgical oncologists may perform a pancreaticoduodenectomy (removal of the head of the pancreas) or a total pancreatectomy (removal of the entire pancreas) to treat pancreatic cancer.
7. Head and neck cancers: Surgical oncology can treat cancers that occur in the head and neck, including cancers of the throat, mouth, and salivary glands.
8. Brain tumors: Surgical oncology can treat brain tumors, including both primary brain tumors that start in the brain and metastatic brain tumors that spread to the brain from other parts of the body

 

What are the Treatments Provided by Surgical Oncology?

There are several different types of oncology surgeries that are used in the treatment of cancer, including:

1. Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for many types of cancer. The goal of surgery is to remove the cancerous tissue or tumor from the body. In some cases, the entire organ or affected area may need to be removed, such as a mastectomy for breast cancer or a nephrectomy for kidney cancer.
2. Lymph node dissection: Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures located throughout the body that play a key role in the immune system. If cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, a surgeon may perform a lymph node dissection to remove these lymph nodes and examine them for cancer.
3. Reconstruction: Depending on the type and location of the surgery, reconstructive surgery may be necessary to restore the function or appearance of the affected area. For example, breast reconstruction may be performed after a mastectomy.
4. Palliative surgery: Palliative surgery may be used to relieve symptoms caused by cancer, such as pain or breathing difficulties. The goal of palliative surgery is to improve quality of life rather than cure cancer.
5. Minimally invasive surgery: Minimally invasive surgery, such as laparoscopic surgery, uses small incisions and specialized tools to remove the cancerous tissue. This type of surgery often leads to shorter recovery times and fewer complications than traditional open surgery.
6. Adjuvant therapy: Adjuvant therapy is treatment that is given after surgery to reduce the risk of the cancer coming back. This method of treatment may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
7. Neoadjuvant therapy: Neoadjuvant therapy is treatment that is given before surgery to shrink the size of the tumor and make it easier to remove. Neoadjuvant therapy may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy.

These treatment methods are often used in combination to effectively treat cancer. The choice of treatment method depends on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and individual needs.It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment.

 

USHAŞ - Oncologists Who Care

USHAS, a government-based institution, works to increase the circulation of in Türkiye. HealthTürkiye has been established specifically to facilitate medical tourism.  At USHAŞ, we care about you, your quality of life, and all your subsequent needs. Connect with the team of surgical oncologists to get the best care possible today.

If you are looking to undergo any specific procedure, or if you want a consultation first, please get in touch with us.