Which cancers are commonly treated with surgery?

Breast, colon, lung, pancreatic, prostate, and skin cancers are commonly treated surgically.

Can head and neck cancers be treated with surgery?

Yes, many head and neck cancers are treated surgically, often with specialized techniques.

Is surgery used for gynecologic cancers?

Yes, surgical oncology treats cervical, ovarian, and uterine cancers.

Can brain cancer be treated with surgery?

Yes, brain tumors may be surgically removed by a specialized neurosurgeon.

What are GI cancers treated with surgery?

Gastrointestinal cancers like colon, rectal, and stomach cancers are often surgically treated.

Do all stages of cancer require surgery?

Not always. Surgery is more effective in early-stage cancer and may not be suitable for advanced stages.

Can melanoma be treated surgically?

Yes, early-stage melanoma is typically treated with surgical removal.

Is surgery used for liver or kidney cancer?

Yes, partial or total organ removal may be performed to treat these cancers.

Types of Cancers Treated with Surgical Oncology

When it comes to cancer treatment, surgery plays a critical role in removing tumors, preventing the spread of cancer, and improving the overall outcome for patients. Surgical oncology is a specialized field of surgery focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of cancerous tumors. At Continental Hospitals, we understand how crucial it is for patients to receive the best possible care. That’s why we offer advanced surgical oncology services to treat various types of cancers effectively and with compassion.

In this blog, we will explore the types of cancers that can be treated through surgical oncology, why surgery is essential in these treatments, and why you should choose Continental Hospitals for your cancer care.

What is Surgical Oncology?

Surgical oncology involves using surgery to treat and manage cancers. It can involve removing tumors, biopsies (to determine if a growth is cancerous), or reconstructive surgery after tumor removal. Surgical oncologists are highly trained professionals who specialize in treating different types of cancer through surgical procedures. Their goal is to remove cancerous tissue, reduce the spread of cancer, and improve the quality of life for the patient.

At Continental Hospitals, our team of experienced surgical oncologists ensures that patients receive cutting-edge treatments tailored to their specific type of cancer. We use minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, which results in shorter recovery times and less pain for patients.

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Types of Cancers Treated with Surgical Oncology

Surgical oncology can treat a wide range of cancers. Let’s look at the most common types:

1. Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in women worldwide. Surgical options for breast cancer include mastectomy (removal of the breast) or lumpectomy (removal of a tumor along with some surrounding tissue). In some cases, lymph nodes near the breast are also removed for further examination. Surgery is often combined with other treatments like radiation, chemotherapy, or hormonal therapy to prevent recurrence.

2. Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer affects the colon or rectum and is common among adults. Surgery is typically the first line of treatment for colorectal cancer, especially in early stages. The goal is to remove the tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue. In advanced stages, a colostomy may be performed to help patients regain bowel function. Chemotherapy or radiation may follow to ensure the cancer has not spread.

3. Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Surgical treatment depends on the type of lung cancer (non-small cell or small cell) and the stage of the disease. For non-small cell lung cancer, surgery is often the first treatment option, where part or all of the affected lung is removed. In early stages, a lobectomy (removal of part of the lung) may be sufficient. If cancer has spread, more aggressive surgery might be necessary.

4. Gastrointestinal Cancer (Stomach, Pancreatic, Liver, and Esophageal Cancer)
Gastrointestinal cancers include cancers of the stomach, pancreas, liver, and esophagus. Surgery is a common treatment for these cancers, often involving the removal of part of the affected organ. For instance, in pancreatic cancer, a procedure called the Whipple procedure is often performed to remove part of the pancreas, duodenum, and bile duct. Stomach cancer may require partial or total gastrectomy, while esophageal cancer often requires the removal of a portion of the esophagus.

5. Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is one of the most treatable cancers if caught early. The most common forms of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Surgical treatment for skin cancer often involves removing the tumor through a procedure called excision. In some cases, more advanced treatments like Mohs micrographic surgery are used to remove the cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

6. Head and Neck Cancer
Head and neck cancers are cancers that occur in the mouth, throat, larynx, sinuses, and nasal cavity. Surgery is commonly used to remove tumors and surrounding tissues. Depending on the cancer’s location, reconstructive surgery may also be needed to restore function, such as speech or swallowing. Radiation therapy is often combined with surgery for head and neck cancer treatment.

7. Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, but surgery can still be effective in removing tumors. A hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) and oophorectomy (removal of ovaries) are common procedures in ovarian cancer surgery. If the cancer has spread to nearby organs, additional surgery may be needed to remove affected tissues.

8. Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer usually requires the removal of part or all of the affected kidney through a procedure called nephrectomy. If the cancer has spread beyond the kidney, additional surgery or treatments may be required. In some cases, minimally invasive surgery is used to remove smaller tumors while preserving kidney function.

9. Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer is often treated with surgery to remove the tumor. In early stages, transurethral resection (removal of the tumor through the urethra) may be sufficient. In advanced cases, cystectomy (removal of the bladder) may be required. Reconstructive surgery may follow to help the patient regain bladder function.

10. Endometrial Cancer
Endometrial cancer affects the lining of the uterus and is commonly treated with surgery. A total hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) is often performed, along with the removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes if necessary. Surgery may be followed by chemotherapy or radiation therapy to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.

Why Choose Continental Hospitals for Surgical Oncology?

Choosing the right healthcare provider for cancer treatment is essential for the best possible outcome. Continental Hospitals offers world-class surgical oncology services with a commitment to the well-being of each patient. Here’s why you should choose us:

Experienced Surgeons: Our team of surgical oncologists is highly trained and experienced in treating a wide range of cancers using the most advanced techniques.

Cutting-edge Technology: We use the latest technology and equipment to ensure precise diagnoses and effective treatments for all types of cancers.

Comprehensive Care: From diagnosis to post-operative care, we provide a holistic approach to cancer treatment, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.

Minimally Invasive Techniques: Whenever possible, we use minimally invasive surgery to reduce recovery times and improve the quality of life for our patients.

Personalized Treatment Plans: Each patient is unique, and we develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their specific needs.

Conclusion

Surgical oncology plays a critical role in the treatment and management of various types of cancers. At Continental Hospitals, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality care for cancer patients. Whether you are dealing with breast cancer, colorectal cancer, or any other type, our expert team is here to guide you through your treatment journey.