What is Cancer Surgery?

Cancer surgery is a common method of treating cancer by removing tumors or affected are;as of the body. It can be used alone or along with other treatments like chemotherapy or radiation. The goal is to remove as many cancer cells as possible.

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Why is Cancer Surgery Done?

Cancer surgery can serve several purposes:

  • Diagnosis: To confirm the presence of cancer or check how far it has spread (using techniques like a biopsy).
  • Treatment: Removing the tumor or cancer-affected tissue, sometimes along with surrounding healthy tissue, to prevent the cancer from spreading.
  • Relief of Symptoms: In advanced stages of cancer, surgery can help reduce pain or discomfort, like removing blockages or reducing pressure caused by tumors.

Types of Cancer Surgery

  1. Cancer Removal Surgery:
    This is done when the cancer is in one part of the body. The goal is to remove all cancerous tissue. It’s most effective when cancer has not spread.
  2. Preventive Surgery:
    In some cases, surgery is done to remove parts of the body that have a high chance of developing cancer, like when people have certain genetic conditions.
  3. Diagnostic Surgery (Biopsy):
    A small part of tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to confirm whether cancer cells are present.
  4. Cancer Check Surgery:
    This helps doctors understand the size and extent of the cancer. It might involve removing lymph nodes or other tissues to check if cancer has spread.
  5. Palliative Surgery:
    When the cancer is advanced and cannot be fully removed, surgery might still be done to help relieve symptoms, such as pain, discomfort, or blockages.
  6. Reconstructive Surgery:
    After the cancer is removed, reconstructive surgery is used to restore the appearance or function of the affected body part. For example, after breast cancer surgery, breast reconstruction may be performed.

Common cancer surgeries:

1. Breast Cancer Surgery

Common name: Mastectomy / Lumpectomy

  • Mastectomy: Removal of one or both breasts, either partially or completely.
  • Lumpectomy: Only the tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue are removed, preserving most of the breast.
  • Breast Reconstruction Explanation: After a mastectomy (complete breast removal) or lumpectomy, breast reconstruction is a surgery to rebuild the shape of the breast. Surgeons use either implants or tissue from other parts of your body (like the abdomen or back) to create a new breast mound. The goal is to restore the appearance of the breast, helping women feel more comfortable and confident after cancer surgery. Reconstruction can be done right after the mastectomy or later, depending on the patient's preference and health.
2. Mouth Cancer Surgery
Glossectomy

Common name: Tongue Removal Surgery

  • Explanation: This surgery involves removing part or all of the tongue if the cancer is located there. A partial glossectomy removes only a portion of the tongue, while a total glossectomy removes the entire tongue.
Mandibulectomy

Common name: Jawbone Surgery

  • Explanation: If the cancer has spread to the jaw, part of the jawbone (mandible) may be removed. Surgeons may replace the removed section with a bone graft from another part of the body.
Commando Surgery

Common name: Combined Mandibulectomy, Neck Dissection, and Oral Surgery

  • Explanation: Commando surgery is a major operation involving the removal of the tumor from the mouth (oral cavity), part of the jawbone (mandibulectomy), and neck dissection to remove lymph nodes. It’s often performed when cancer has spread beyond the mouth to surrounding structures, including the jawbone and lymph nodes in the neck.
  • Purpose: This surgery is used for aggressive mouth or oral cancer that has spread locally, aiming to remove both the cancer and affected tissues while reducing the risk of further spread.
Mouth cancer reconstruction procedures

Free Flap: Reconstructs large areas using tissue from distant parts of the body.

Local Flap: Uses nearby tissue for smaller, simpler reconstructions.

Free Fibula Flap: Reconstructs the jawbone using part of the fibula.

3. Lung Cancer Surgery

Common name: Lobectomy

  • Explanation: This involves removing a lobe of the lung where the cancer is located. Lungs have multiple lobes, and removing one can help eliminate cancerous cells while preserving lung function.
4. Colon Cancer Surgery

Common name: Colectomy

  • Explanation: Part of the colon (large intestine) is removed, along with nearby lymph nodes. Depending on how much is taken out, it may be called a partial or total colectomy.
5. Prostate Cancer Surgery

Common name: Prostatectomy

  • Explanation: The prostate gland is removed to stop the spread of cancer. This is often recommended when cancer is contained within the prostate and hasn't spread beyond it.
6. Ovarian Cancer Surgery

Common name: Oophorectomy

  • Explanation: One or both ovaries are surgically removed to treat ovarian cancer. In some cases, this may be combined with removal of the fallopian tubes and uterus.
7. Thyroid Cancer Surgery

Common name: Thyroidectomy

  • Explanation: The thyroid gland, located in the neck, is partially or completely removed. If only a part of the thyroid is taken out, it's called a partial thyroidectomy; if the whole gland is removed, it's a total thyroidectomy.
8. Bladder Cancer Surgery

Common name: Cystectomy

  • Explanation: Part or all of the bladder is removed to eliminate cancerous cells. If the entire bladder is removed, it's called a radical cystectomy.

What Happens Before Cancer Surgery?

Before undergoing cancer surgery, there are several important steps to ensure everything is prepared and you understand the process:

1. Discussions with Your Team:

Your doctor and surgical team will explain the surgery, its benefits, risks, and what to expect during and after the procedure. They will answer any questions you may have to help you feel informed and comfortable.

2. Medical Tests:

To make sure you are healthy enough for surgery, your doctor will likely order:

  • Blood Tests: To check your overall health and make sure your organs, like the liver and kidneys, are functioning well.
  • Imaging Scans: These may include X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to give a clearer picture of the cancer and surrounding areas.
  • Physical Exams: Your doctor may check your heart, lungs, and other vital signs to ensure you can safely undergo surgery.
3. Pre-Surgery Instructions:

You will be given specific guidelines to follow before the operation:

  • Fasting: You may be asked not to eat or drink anything for several hours before surgery.
  • Medications: Your doctor will tell you which medications to stop or continue taking. Some drugs, like blood thinners, may need to be paused.
  • Other Preparations: You may need to arrange transportation home after surgery, as you may not be able to drive yourself.

What Happens After Surgery?

The recovery process can vary based on the type of surgery and your overall health, but here are the key areas to consider:

1. Pain Management

After surgery, it's normal to feel some pain or discomfort. Your healthcare team will provide pain relief, such as medications, to keep you comfortable. Let them know if your pain is not controlled, as adjustments can be made.

2. Healing and Wound Care

The surgical site will need special care to heal properly and avoid infections. You may receive instructions on how to clean the wound and what signs to watch for, such as redness or swelling, which could indicate infection.

3. Rest and Recovery

It's important to give your body time to rest and recover. You may feel tired for several days or weeks, depending on the surgery's complexity. You might need help with daily activities at first, so having family or friends around can be helpful.

4. Follow-Up Appointments

Your doctor will schedule follow-up visits to monitor your healing and check for any complications. These appointments are also an opportunity to discuss any concerns or ask questions about your recovery.

Risks and Complications

Although cancer surgery is often essential, it does come with potential risks. Some of the more common risks include:

1. Infection

Any surgery carries a risk of infection. Your healthcare team will provide instructions on how to prevent infection, such as keeping the wound clean and looking for signs like fever or redness.

2. Bleeding

Some bleeding during and after surgery is normal, but if bleeding continues or becomes severe, it may need immediate medical attention.

3. Reactions to Anesthesia

Some people may experience side effects from the anesthesia, such as nausea or dizziness, but serious reactions are rare. The anesthesiologist will monitor you closely during the procedure.

Support During Recovery

Recovering from cancer surgery can be physically and emotionally challenging, but several types of support are available:

Emotional Support

Dealing with cancer and surgery can be overwhelming. Talking to friends, family, or a counselor can help you cope with stress, anxiety, or fear.

Support Groups

Joining a cancer support group can provide comfort and understanding, as you connect with others who have gone through similar experiences. Sharing stories and advice can make the recovery process feel less isolating.

Health Resources

Your healthcare team will give you resources, such as rehabilitation services or informational guides, to help with physical recovery. They can also refer you to specialists, like dietitians or therapists, if needed.

Why should you plan your Cancer Surgery with Oncare?

Affordable & Transparent Care: At Oncare, we provide top-quality cancer surgery at a fraction of the cost (30-40% less) compared to many private hospitals. Our commitment to transparency ensures you'll always know exactly what you're paying for, so financial constraints won't affect your treatment.

Experienced Doctors: Our team consists of highly skilled and experienced oncologists, offering personalized treatment plans to give you the best possible care.

Trustworthy Services: Oncare has built a reputation for trust and reliability, so you can feel confident that you're in safe hands throughout your treatment.

Avoid Government Hospital Delays: Long waiting times and overcrowding in government hospitals can delay your treatment. Oncare provides timely care without the hassle.

Private Hospital Quality, Without the High Costs: We offer the same level of care as top private hospitals, but at significantly lower prices, making it accessible for more patients.