Surgery for cancer is often the primary treatment for solid tumors, with an estimated 60% of cancer patients undergoing some form of surgery.
Early cancer surgery can provide several benefits such as a higher chance of successful treatment outcomes, reduced treatment costs, and avoiding more invasive procedures. Early cancer surgery can prevent further complications and prevent complicated invasive surgery during advanced stages.
According to cancer research, early detection of cancer can lead to better clinical and survival outcomes. For example, in breast cancer treatment, the majority of women with early-stage cancer are candidates for surgery, which can result in a better chance of survival.
In addition, early-stage cancer surgeries can prevent cancer cells from spreading to other parts of the body and can reduce or eliminate symptoms, which can lead to an improved quality of life for patients.
Overall, early cancer surgery, when combined with other treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy, can provide patients with the best chance of recovery and long-term survival.
What are the different types of cancer surgery ?
MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY
Minimally invasive cancer surgery refers to surgical procedures that are conducted through small incisions or natural orifices ( an opening) , using specialized surgical instruments and cameras.
The goal of these procedures is to minimize patient trauma, blood loss, reduce pain and scarring, and speed up recovery time.
Some common types of minimally invasive cancer surgeries include laser surgery, robotic surgery, and cryosurgery. These procedures are becoming more widely used in the surgical treatment of a variety of cancers, including gastric cancer, colon cancer, esophageal cancer, and early-stage cervical cancer as well as breast cancer.
A. ROBOTIC SURGERY
Robotic surgery is an advanced form of minimally invasive surgery that is becoming increasingly popular in the treatment of cancer. Â
During robotic surgery for cancer, the surgeon uses robotic tools that are controlled by a computer to perform the operation. The surgeon makes a few small incisions to insert the robotic instruments and a high-definition camera. The camera provides a 3D view of the surgical area, while the robotic instruments offer greater range of motion and precision than possible with traditional laparoscopic surgery.
Robotic surgery can be used for a variety of cancer surgeries such as prostatectomy, hysterectomy, lung cancer surgery, and colon cancer surgery. Robotic surgery for cancer treatment has numerous benefits for the patient, including less tissue damage, minimal blood loss, and fewer complications.
B. Laser Surgery for Cancer
Laser surgery is a type of minimally invasive surgery that uses a laser to remove or destroy cancerous tissue. The laser is a highly focused beam of light that can be used to target and destroy cancer cells with great precision. Different types of lasers and laser techniques can be used in cancer treatment, depending on the type and stage of cancer.Â
Some types of laser therapy include laser-induced interstitial thermotherapy (LITT), transoral laser microsurgery (TLM), and photodynamic therapy (PDT).
I. Laser-induced interstitial thermotherapy (LITT)
Also known as stereotactic laser ablation (SLA), LITT can be used to treat a variety of cancer types, including brain tumors, liver metastases, and pancreatic tumors.
During LITT, a laser is inserted into the tumor under image guidance, and the heat from the laser is used to destroy the cancerous cells.
II. Transoral laser microsurgery (TLM)
Transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) is a minimally invasive surgical technique used in the treatment of various head and neck cancers primarily laryngeal cancer. The procedure involves using a carbon dioxide laser to remove cancerous tissue from the larynx while preserving the surrounding healthy tissue.
TLM may be used to treat both early-stage and advanced-stage laryngeal cancer. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia
III. Photodynamic therapy (PDT)
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a medical treatment that uses a photosensitizing agent and a light source to destroy cancerous or other abnormal cells.
PDT involves the administration of a photosensitizing drug, which is activated by specific wavelengths of light in the presence of oxygen, causing the death of targeted cells.
The light source can be an external laser or LED, or an internal endoscope or fiber optic device, depending on the location of the abnormal cells.
PDT has been approved to treat a variety of cancers, including skin cancer, lung cancer, esophageal cancer, and bladder cancer
C . Cryosurgery for Cancer
Cryosurgery is a type of cancer treatment that uses extreme cold (usually liquid nitrogen or argon gas) to destroy cancer cells and abnormal tissue.
Cryosurgery also called cryoablation or cryotherapy, may be used to treat certain types of cancer, including skin cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, and cervical cancer..
During the procedure, a thin, needle-like probe is inserted through the skin and into the tumor, delivering extremely cold temperatures that freeze and destroy the cancerous cells
Risks for Cancer Surgery can be mitigated in the following ways –
- Preoperative evaluation to identify any health issues that may affect surgery or anesthesia.
- Informed consent that explains the procedure, potential risks, and benefits, as well as alternative treatment options.
- Use of the latest surgical techniques and technology to reduce tissue damage and minimize complications.
- Effective communication and collaboration among members of the surgical team.
- Appropriate use of pain management techniques to reduce postoperative pain and discomfort.
- Regular monitoring and management of potential complications.
MedicoExperts Tumour Board can help to minimize the side effects by giving recommendations for advanced minimally invasive cancer surgery.
Special diet after cancer surgery
After undergoing cancer surgery, it is important to follow a healthy and well-balanced diet to promote healing and overall well-being.
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein is recommended. It’s also important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
Depending on the type of cancer surgery performed, the surgeon may recommend smaller, more frequent meals, rather than three large meals a day.
Adding protein powder can also help increase protein intake. Eating slowly and avoiding foods that are hard to digest may also be helpful.
Best Surgical Centre for Cancer Surgery
The best cancer surgery center depends on several factors, including the location, type of cancer, latest treatment options available in the centre.
It is important to research and compare various cancer centers, talk to healthcare providers, and consider factors such as quality of care, reputation, expertise, and patient outcomes to determine the best option for each individual.
MedicoExperts Tumour Board
MedicoExperts tumor boards play a significant role in deciding the best treatment plan for cancer patients.
MedicoExpertsTumor boards are multidisciplinary teams of medical specialists who review individual cases and recommend personalized treatment plans based on the patient’s unique needs. The board reviews the patient’s medical history, diagnostic tests, imaging studies, and biopsy results to determine the best course of action.
Tumor boards consists of surgeons, medical oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and nurses, among others, depending on the type of cancer being treated. The goal of the tumor board is to provide the patient with the most effective treatment plan that minimizes the risk of complications and promotes the best possible outcome.
Conclusion
Cancer surgery is an important part of cancer treatment plans, although the specific approach may vary depending on the type of cancer, stage of cancer, and individualized needs of each patient.
Surgery may be performed alone or in combination with other treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy or targeted therapy.
MedicoExpertsTumor boards, which are multidisciplinary teams of medical specialists, play a significant role in determining the best approach to surgery and other treatment options. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine after surgery may also be helpful in promoting healing and overall well-being.
FAQ :
Q1. Can cancer be removed by surgery?
A: Early stage cancer can be removed by surgery without much pain and later stage complications.
Q2. Can Stage 4 cancer have surgery?
A: Stage 4 cancer cannot have surgery as the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
