Gynecologic Surgery
Cancer Care Northwest is the only treatment center in the Inland Northwest with surgeons who specialize in treating gynecologic cancers, which include ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, cervical cancer, and other cancers of the female reproductive organs.
Our gynecologic oncologists perform many complicated surgeries on a daily basis to treat gynecologic cancers. Research shows that gynecologic oncologists, with their extensive experience and special training, deliver the best surgical care and greatly improved outcomes for women who have gynecologic cancers.
Our gynecologic oncologists are skilled in the use of cutting-edge robotic surgery techniques and other minimally invasive surgical procedures to treat gynecologic cancers, which significantly reduce pain and recovery time after surgery.
Types of Gynecologic Surgery
Treatment for gynecologic cancers usually begins with surgery. The type and extent of surgery depends on the location and size of your cancer. Gynecologic surgery is often combined with other treatment methods, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, to kill any cancerous cells that could not be removed with surgery. Gynecologic oncologists are also trained to administer chemotherapy.
Staging
Surgery to stage the cancer is usually the first step—and one of the most critical steps— in effectively treating gynecologic cancers. The information from staging is used to determine if and where the cancer has spread, the prognosis (likelihood of remission), and what additional therapy is needed, such as chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.
Tumor Debulking
Tumor debulking is a surgical technique that is primarily used in the treatment of ovarian cancer, but can also be used in other advanced gynecologic cancers. This technique involves removing as much of the cancer as possible, making it more likely that chemotherapy will be effective. Gynecologic oncologists are specially trained to do these types of procedures.
Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is a common surgical procedure used to treat gynecologic cancers. The procedure involves the removal of the cervix and the uterus. Sometimes the ovaries, fallopian tubes, part of the vagina, nearby lymph nodes and surrounding tissue are also removed.
Pelvic Exenteration
This extensive operation involves a hysterectomy, as well as the removal of the bladder, vagina, rectum, and part of the colon. Reconstructive surgery may be required after this procedure.
Vulvar Surgeries
Many different procedures are used to treat precancerous and cancerous diseases of the vulva. Gynecologic oncologists are trained in determining the type of procedure that will be needed, depending on the extent of the disease.