Cancer Surgery
Cancer surgery remains a leading option for removing cancer from the body. Your physician may recommend surgery for a variety of reasons, including diagnosing, removing and relieving the symptoms of various types of cancer. Surgery may be the only treatment necessary or just one part of a broader treatment plan that may include chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
SSM Health surgical oncologists are some of the best in their fields. If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, find an SSM Health oncologist near you. If surgery is recommended, they will discuss your options and suggest the best course of treatment.
Common Reasons to Have Cancer Surgery
This surgery process is designed to remove as much of a tumor as possible when complete eradication (due to proximity to vital organs or tissue) is not possible.
Your physician may perform a biopsy to remove all or part of a tumor to determine if a growth is cancerous.
If you are predisposed to certain types of cancers because of genetics, you may choose to have tissues or organs removed as a preventative measure.
Surgery is often the best option for completely removing cancerous growths and surrounding tissue from the body.
Surgical removal of all or part of a tumor, can be tested to determine the progression, or stage, of a cancer.
Types of Cancer Surgery
In addition to traditional applications of cancer surgery, SSM Health surgical oncologists practice some of the newest treatment options available. These include:
During this process, physicians rely on real-time images– provided by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computerized tomography (CT) – to guide them during an operation.
Instead of a large incision, a surgeon is able to make a series of tiny cuts, inserting a laparoscope. This tool contains a small camera and surgical tools for easier diagnosis, staging, and/or treatment and symptom relief.
High-intensity light is used to shrink or destroy cancer cells.
This procedure allows our surgical oncologists to carefully remove the cancer in layers, from sensitive areas of the skin, such as near the eye.
If you’re facing surgery as a treatment for your cancer, consider getting a second opinion from an SSM Health surgical oncologist. They will take the time to explain the types of surgery available to you, so you can move forward with confidence.
The SSM Health Cancer Care team understands that every cancer journey is different. By combining state-of-the-art treatments with compassionate care, you can be assured that you’re getting the best possible care for your type and stage of cancer. Make an appointment today to learn more.