Introduction
The reasons to undergo surgery for gynecologic cancer may include:
- Diagnosis (to determine if cancer is present)
- Staging (determine the extent of the cancer)
- Treatment (remove the cancer)
- Implant tools to help with chemotherapy or radiation
The most common area of surgery in gynecologic oncology is the abdomen.
To determine which surgical approach will be used, your physician will evaluate and consider the following:
- Goals of the surgery
- Patient’s health condition
- Size of the uterus or tumor that needs to be removed
- Type of surgery
Learn more about available surgery options through our in-depth glossary of terms.
Abdominal Surgery
Open Abdominal Surgery (Laparotomy)
This traditional surgical approach uses, as its name implies, a large incision (6-12 inches) to provide open access to the abdominal area.
- In cancer surgery, incision is usually vertical (up and down)
- May be necessary for large masses/tumors
- May be necessary where exposure to the entire abdomen is required
- May be necessary when certain health/medical conditions exist
- It is most commonly performed for:
- Advanced-stage ovarian cancer surgery,
- To removed large uterus or tumors
- Other radical surgeries
Minimally Invasive Surgery (Laparoscopy with or without robotic assistance)
Minimally invasive surgical procedures are an alternative to open (invasive) surgery that allow for closed or local surgery with less trauma. These procedures involve the use of laparoscopic devices and remote-control manipulation of instruments with indirect observation of the surgical field through an endoscope or similar device.
- Multiple small incisions on the abdomen
- Camera is inserted into the abdomen to visualize the abdominal cavity
- Small instruments are used to perform the surgery
- Most commonly performed for:
- Uterine cancer staging
- Evaluation pelvic masses
- Early stage ovarian cancer
- Cervical Cancer
- Fertility-sparing procedures
Robotic Advantage
Over the last year the gynecologic oncologist at NCS have incorporated the daVinci® robotic system into our minimally invasive surgery options. This technology allows for improved dexterity, visualization and control by the surgeon. Incorporating technology developed by NASA for the use of "robotic arms" in space, the da Vinci's robotic micro-instruments translate the precise movements of the surgeon's hands while filtering out even the slightest tremors. High-definition, scaled 3D imaging allows for optimum viewing and manipulation of sensitive nerves and tissues.
Because of the additional advantages with robotic surgery, minimally invasive surgery can be performed in women who otherwise might not be candidates for standard laparoscopy. The robotic surgery is also associated with an even faster recovery and less pain than the standard laparoscopic approach.
Learn more about the daVinci® robotic surgery system.
NCS Gynecologic Oncology surgeons perform da Vinci robotics procedures at these hospitals:
