Cancer treatment does not involve a straight path. Rather, it is a strategic journey. Oncologists choose different approaches to treat the life-threatening disease. So, not every treatment plan involves only medication or a beam of radiation. You may also need surgery to accelerate your recovery from cancer.
Although surgery is a bold move in many cancer treatments, it is not the primary step. So, when do oncologists recommend a surgical process to increase the chance of survival? Let us discuss the significance of surgery in cancer care.
Why Do Oncologists Choose Surgery for a Cancer Patient?
An oncologist always evaluates different treatment options for a remedy. However, most experts think that surgery is effective in addressing multiple types of cancers. There are various purposes of conducting a surgery for cancer symptoms.
Diagnose the Disease
Some oncologists recommend surgery to confirm if you have cancer. It is a type of biopsy intended for the proper diagnosis of your disease. A surgical biopsy involves making a cut to remove tissue. In some biopsies, surgeons use image-guided fine needles to check the condition. The biopsy type depends on the position of your tumour.
Stage Cancer
You need to undergo staging surgery to determine the size of your tumour. The surgeons may remove your tumour fully or partially. By obtaining a few nearby lymph nodes, they detect if the cancerous cells have spread there. Small lymph nodes are bean-shaped organs that combat infection.
Pathologists will test the removed tissue and send the report to the oncologist.
Treat Cancer Symptoms
Surgery is a way to treat your severe cancer symptoms. Depending on the cancer type, the surgeon makes a decision on surgery. In case of the curative surgery, surgeons will remove cancerous tissues. They will also remove a few healthy tissues to increase the chance of survival.
Debulking surgery is another process recommended for those who have a complex condition. For instance, if you have an advanced ovarian cancer, surgery is a vital treatment option. It reduces cancerous cells and makes other treatments more effective.
Alleviate Your Side Effects
Some surgeries for cancer-affected people are intended to reduce side effects. As cancer degrades the quality of life, surgical approaches are recommended.
The surgery will reduce pressure on nerves, which causes pain. It also stops bleeding and removes blocks in the intestines.
Your oncologists also recommend palliative surgery to make you feel better by reducing issues caused by cancer.
Reconstruct Your Body Parts
Many people with cancer undergo surgery that leads to cosmetic issues. That is why they need reconstruction surgery to restore their body’s functions and appearance. For example, you may need breast reconstruction after undergoing a mastectomy.
Prevent the Development of Cancer
Prophylactic or preventive surgery will reduce the risk of experiencing cancer symptoms. It involves removing tissues that could cause cancer. In many cases, the surgeon removes the organ if you are at a high risk of cancer. Breast removal before cancer occurs will reduce the risk of breast cancer in the future.
Does Cancer Surgery Cause a Risk?
Pain is a common side effect of cancer surgery. So, your oncologists will prescribe medicines to lower the pain. You may also experience an infection after undergoing surgery. Some people find issues with their organ functions after the surgical procedure.
You can consult the best oncologist in Vadodara to know how to lower these side effects.
Need to Contact an Oncologist for Cancer Treatment?
Surgery plays a crucial role in cancer treatment — whether it’s diagnosing, removing tumors, reducing symptoms, or restoring body function. The decision to perform surgery depends on the cancer type, its stage, and your overall health. With advancements in medical technology and experienced oncologists, surgical outcomes have become safer and more effective.
If you or your loved one are seeking expert cancer care, consult the oncology team at Parul Sevashram Hospital. Early consultation and the right treatment approach can make a life-changing difference.
