Cancer surgery
Cancer Surgery is a medical procedure that involves the removal of tumor or cancerous cells from the body. It is one of the primary treatments for cancer, alongside radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
Types of Cancer Surgery[edit | edit source]
There are several types of cancer surgery, each designed to address specific types of cancer or stages of the disease.
- Curative Surgery: This is performed when cancer is found in only one area, and it is likely that all of the cancer can be removed. In this case, curative surgery can be the main treatment.
- Preventive Surgery: This is used to remove tissue that does not contain cancer cells, but may develop into a malignant tumor. For example, polyps in the colon may be removed as a preventive measure against colorectal cancer.
- Diagnostic Surgery: This helps to determine whether cells are cancerous. Diagnostic surgery is used to remove a tissue sample for testing and evaluation (in a laboratory by a pathologist). The medical term for this is a biopsy.
- Staging Surgery: This is done to find out how much cancer there is and how far it has spread. The physical exams and the results of lab and imaging tests can also give a doctor a general idea about a person’s cancer staging.
- Debulking Surgery: This is used to remove some, but not all, of the cancer. It is sometimes done when removing an entire tumor would cause damage to an organ or the body.
- Palliative Surgery: This is used to treat problems caused by advanced cancer. It is not a curative surgery.
Risks and Complications[edit | edit source]
Like all surgeries, cancer surgery carries risks. These include infection, bleeding, and reactions to anesthesia. The potential complications of cancer surgery depend on several factors, including the type of surgery, the part of the body involved, and the person's overall health.
Recovery and Follow-up[edit | edit source]
Recovery from cancer surgery often requires time and careful follow-up care. Most people will need to stay in the hospital for a few days after the operation. Follow-up care includes regular physical exams and medical tests to monitor for any signs of cancer recurrence.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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