Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that may be recommended to treat ovarian cancer by removing a woman’s uterus, cervix and surrounding tissue. While surgery is usually an important component of a patient’s treatment plan, it is important to note that there are several different types of ovarian cancer, as well as several different surgical techniques to address it. The determination of whether a hysterectomy or another form of surgical intervention is most appropriate for a patient should be made by an experienced gynecologic oncologist based on a number of individual factors, most importantly, the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health.
Prior to evaluating surgical treatment options for ovarian cancer, a procedure may be needed to determine the extent of the cancer and whether it has spread. To accomplish this, a surgeon might remove tissue samples, lymph nodes and/or abdominal fluid for further testing. During this initial surgical procedure, a surgeon will also remove as much of the cancer as possible.
If a hysterectomy is recommended for treating ovarian cancer, there are several approaches that a surgeon can use to perform the procedure:
- Abdominal or open hysterectomy – A surgeon creates an incision that measures approximately 7 inches either vertically or horizontally across the abdominal region, and then removes the uterus and cervix through this incision
- Vaginal hysterectomy – A surgeon makes an incision in the vagina and removes the uterus and cervix through this opening, leaving no visible scars
- Laparoscopic hysterectomy – A surgeon makes one or more small cuts in the navel and/or belly, then inserts a tiny camera and specialized instruments, which the surgeon uses to visualize and remove the uterus and cervix
- Robot-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy – Advanced technology adds a high level of precision to a surgeon’s hand movements when performing a laparoscopic procedure
In the fight against ovarian cancer, finding the right cancer center and surgeon is important. Women can receive outstanding ovarian cancer treatment at Moffitt Cancer Center, where we take a unique, multispecialty approach. Prior to recommending surgery, our talented tumor board thoroughly analyzes all aspects of the patient’s case and develops a fully individualized treatment plan. And, as a high-volume cancer center, we offer a level of surgical expertise that far exceeds that of other providers. Simply put, numbers matter, and our surgeons’ expertise can make all the difference in beating cancer.
To learn more about hysterectomy and other forms of ovarian cancer surgery available at Moffitt’s gynecological clinic, call 1-888-663-3488 or schedule an appointment online. We do not require referrals.
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