Surgery for cervical cancer
The treatment of cervical cancer (cancer of the cervix of the uterus) depends on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, possible side effects, and the patient’s preferences and overall health. Take time to learn about all of your treatment options and be sure to ask questions about things that are unclear. Talk with your doctor about the goals of each treatment and what you can expect while receiving the treatment. These types of talks are called “shared decision-making.
For cancer that has not spread beyond the cervix, these procedures are often used:
1) Conization
The procedure is to remove all of the abnormal cervical tissue.
2) Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP)
In this procedure, electrical current is passed through a thin wire hook. The hook removes the abnormal tissue. It can be used to remove micro-invasive cervical cancer.
3) Surgery
Surgery is the removal of the tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue during an operation.
A) Hysterectomy
It is the removal of the uterus and cervix. A hysterectomy can be either simple or radical. A simple hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus and cervix. A radical hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus, cervix, upper vagina, and the tissue around the cervix. A radical hysterectomy also includes an extensive pelvic lymph node dissection, which means lymph nodes are removed. This procedure can be done using a large cut in the abdomen, called laparotomy, or using smaller cuts, using laparoscopic or robotic surgery.
Keyhole surgery has enhanced recovery, less blood loss, less postoperative pain and shortened hospital stay.
B) Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy.
If needed, this surgery is the removal of both fallopian tubes and both ovaries. It is done at the same time as a hysterectomy.
C) Radical trachelectomy
A surgical procedure in which the cervix is removed, but the uterus is left intact. It includes pelvic lymph node dissection. This surgery may be used for young patients who want to preserve their fertility. This procedure has become an acceptable alternative to a hysterectomy for some patients.
D) Exenteration
The removal of the uterus, vagina, lower colon, rectum, and/or urinary bladder, if cervical cancer has spread to these organs after radiation therapy. Exenteration is rarely recommended. It is most often used when cancer has come back after radiation therapy.
Complications or side effects from surgery vary depending on the type and extent of the procedure. Occasionally, patients experience significant bleeding, infection, or damage to the urinary and intestinal systems.
4) Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy is the use of high-energy X-rays or other particles to destroy cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be given alone instead of surgery, before surgery, or after surgery to shrink the tumor.
5) Medications
The types of medications used for cervical cancer include:
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Chemotherapy
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Targeted therapy
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Immunotherapy
Before surgery, talk with your doctor about the possible side effects from the specific surgery you will have and how they can be relieved.
Because these surgical procedures affect sexual health, patients should talk with their doctor about their symptoms and concerns in detail before the surgery. The doctor may be able to help reduce the side effects of surgery and provide support resources on coping with any changes.
Discuss the results at your first follow-up appointment after the operation. Contact Dr. Aneeta Talwar, who is the Best Cervical Cancer Treatment Doctor in Bangalore.
