Introduction
There is no denial to fact thar surgery plays a critical role in the fight against this formidable disease. Cancer surgery is a powerful weapon in the comprehensive treatment approach. Cancer is a complex and multifaceted illness that can manifest in various forms throughout the body. However, with early detection and innovative surgical techniques, we can make great strides in the battle against cancer.
Surgical Oncology
Surgery is best chance of cure in most of solid organ tumors. It’s a fct that 80% of cancer patients will require surgery during their course of disease yet only 25% were able to receive safe and effective surgery in time. Roles played by Surgical Oncologist include but not limited to:
- Diagnosis and staging of cancer in most accurate way
- Resection of cancer with adequate margins and lymph nodes to achieve best possible cure
- Prophylactic surgery in hereditary syndromes
- Surgery for limited operable metastatic disease
- Relief of symptoms and maintaining quality of life
Oncosurgery is curative in intent, cost effective and has shorter treatment duration compared to other treatments. Surgical Oncology is an integral part of multidisciplinary tumor board meeting, and its approaches should be discussed with each patient. Surgical oncologists should lead multidisciplinary teams in care of majority of solid tumours.
Types of Cancer Surgeries
Cancer surgery encompasses a wide range of procedures, each tailored to the specific type of cancer and its stage. Some common types of cancer surgeries include:
- Head & Neck Oncosurgery: This surgery aims to remove tumors in the head and neck region, often associated with cancers of the mouth, throat, and larynx. This type of surgery requires precision and expertise to ensure the preservation of essential functions like speech and swallowing,
- Breast Oncosurgery: It involves the removal of breast tumors, either through lumpectomy or mastectomy, depending on the extent of the cancer.
- Gynae Oncosurgery: This surgery focuses on cancers affecting the female reproductive system, including ovarian, cervical, and uterine cancers.
- Gastrointestinal Oncosurgery: It targets cancers in the gastrointestinal tract, such as stomach, liver, pancreas, gall bladder, colon, and rectal cancers.
- Genitourinary Oncosurgery: This surgery addresses cancers in the genitourinary system, including prostate, bladder, and kidney cancers.
- Thoracic Oncosurgery: It deals with cancers in the chest region, such as lung cancer and esophageal cancer.
- Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcoma Surgery
Innovative Advancements in Surgical Techniques
Surgical techniques have come a long way in the fight against cancer. With advancements in technology, surgeons can now perform minimally invasive procedures, resulting in smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery times. One innovative technique is robotic-assisted surgery, where a surgeon controls a robotic system to perform complex procedures with precision. This technology allows for greater accuracy and flexibility, ultimately improving patient outcomes. Sentinel lymph node biopsy helps in limiting dissection of desired lymph nodes only. From more radical to conservation surgery and limited surgery to most extensive cytoreductive HIPEC surgeries, oncosurgeons are helping the society in best possibles unparallel ways.
The Importance of Post-Operative Care
Post-operative care is crucial for a successful recovery after cancer surgery. It involves monitoring the patient’s progress, managing pain, and addressing any complications that may arise. Rehabilitation programs may also be recommended to help patients regain their strength and mobility.
Support from healthcare professionals, friends, and family is essential during this time. Mental and emotional well-being can greatly impact the recovery process, and having a strong support system can provide the necessary encouragement and positivity.
Conclusion
In the face of cancer, hope is a powerful ally. Cancer surgery, along with other treatment modalities, offers a ray of hope for patients battling this disease. Early detection, the different types of cancer surgeries, innovative advancements in surgical techniques, and post-operative care all play crucial roles in the fight against cancer.
Join us to understand cancer surgery and spread optimism to those in need. Remember, together, we can overcome even the most formidable challenges.
