Cancer is a complex disease, and its treatment often requires a combination of methods, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies. Among these, cancer surgery plays a pivotal role—both for diagnosis and treatment. But how do you know when surgery is the right option?
As a leading Cancer Surgeon in Latur, Dr. Priyanka Rathod helps patients and families make informed decisions about surgical treatment. In this blog, we explore the situations in which cancer surgery is appropriate, and what patients can expect.
What Is Cancer Surgery?
Cancer surgery involves the physical removal of a tumor from the body. Depending on the cancer type and stage, surgery may be performed alone or alongside other treatments. In many cases, surgery offers the best chance of removing the cancer completely—especially if it is detected early.
When Is Cancer Surgery the Right Treatment Option?
1. When the Cancer Is Localized
If the tumor is confined to one area and has not spread to other organs or lymph nodes, surgery is often the primary treatment. Removing the tumor early can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of recurrence.
2. For Diagnostic Purposes
Surgery is sometimes needed to remove a sample of tissue (biopsy) to confirm a cancer diagnosis. This is often followed by further treatment planning based on the cancer’s type and grade.
3. To Remove As Much of the Cancer as Possible (Debulking)
In some cases, where the entire tumor cannot be safely removed, surgeons perform debulking surgery to reduce its size. This makes other treatments like chemotherapy or radiation more effective.
4. To Relieve Symptoms (Palliative Surgery)
When cancer is advanced and cannot be cured, surgery may be used to ease pain, reduce pressure, or control bleeding—improving the patient’s quality of life.
5. Preventive Surgery
For individuals at high genetic risk (such as those with BRCA gene mutations), preventive surgery (like mastectomy or removal of ovaries) may be recommended to reduce cancer risk.
Types of Cancer Surgery
Depending on the condition, the type of surgery may vary:
- Curative Surgery – Complete removal of the tumor with a margin of healthy tissue
- Reconstructive Surgery – Restoring appearance or function after tumor removal (e.g., breast reconstruction)
- Laparoscopic or Minimally Invasive Surgery – Small incisions, faster recovery
- Robotic-Assisted Surgery – Precision-guided procedures with better control
- Emergency Surgery – For complications like obstruction, bleeding, or infection
Factors That Influence the Decision for Surgery
Every cancer case is unique. The decision to go ahead with surgery depends on:
- Type and stage of cancer
- Location of the tumor
- General health and fitness of the patient
- Whether the cancer has spread (metastasized)
- Potential risks and benefits of the surgery
- Whether surgery can improve survival or quality of life
As a cancer surgeon in Latur, Dr. Priyanka Rathod carefully evaluates these factors through clinical assessment, imaging studies, and pathology reports before recommending surgical intervention.
What to Expect Before and After Cancer Surgery
Before Surgery:
- Diagnostic tests like CT, MRI, or PET scans
- Pre-surgical counseling and risk assessment
- Instructions on fasting and medications
During Surgery:
- General or regional anesthesia
- Length and complexity depending on procedure
- Monitoring for vital signs and safety
After Surgery:
- Hospital stay may range from 1 to several days
- Pain management and wound care
- Instructions for home recovery, diet, and activity
- Follow-up for pathology results and further treatment (if needed)
Recovery varies with each patient. Some may need additional therapy after surgery (adjuvant treatment), while others may require long-term monitoring.
Benefits and Risks of Cancer Surgery
Benefits:
- Removes cancerous tissue completely in early stages
- Helps relieve symptoms and improve comfort
- Provides accurate diagnosis and staging
- May reduce the need for intensive treatments later
Risks:
- Bleeding, infection, or reaction to anesthesia
- Possibility of incomplete removal if cancer has spread
- Temporary or permanent functional changes, depending on location (e.g., voice, digestion)
However, in expert hands, surgical risks are minimized. With advances in surgical techniques, outcomes and safety continue to improve.
Cancer surgery can be a life-saving intervention—but it's not suitable for every patient or every stage. That’s why a personalized treatment plan, created with the expertise of a qualified cancer surgeon, is essential.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer and are seeking clarity about surgical options, Dr. Priyanka Rathod in Latur offers compassionate, evidence-based cancer care. Schedule a consultation to explore the best treatment approach for your condition.
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