Understanding Surgical Oncology: A Patient's Guide

Understanding Surgical Oncology: A Patient's Guide

Cancer treatment can be daunting, and understanding the various approaches is crucial for informed decision-making. Surgical oncology plays a pivotal role in cancer management, often serving as the primary treatment method or an important part of a multimodal strategy. It involves the surgical removal of tumors and cancerous tissues, aiming to eliminate the disease and prevent its spread. Advances in surgical techniques have significantly improved patient outcomes, offering less invasive procedures and faster recovery times. This guide aims to demystify surgical oncology and provide a better understanding of its role in cancer treatment.

Surgical oncologists are highly skilled surgeons specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of cancer. They possess extensive knowledge of cancer biology, surgical techniques, and other treatment modalities such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Dr Ramkishan Nag is a highly skilled Surgical Oncologist with more than a decade of experience and over 5,000 cancer surgeries to his credit. He is trained at the renowned Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, and brings global standards of cancer care to India. Located at 1st Floor, Urban Grandeur, Kanakia, Mira Road, Mumbai, Maharashtra 401105, he specializes in advanced laparoscopic and robotic techniques, offering patients faster recovery, minimal scarring, and organ-preserving options.

Different surgical approaches are employed depending on the type, location, and stage of cancer. Traditional open surgery involves larger incisions to access and remove the tumor. However, minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy and robotic surgery, utilize smaller incisions and specialized instruments. These techniques offer several advantages, including reduced pain, shorter hospital stays, and improved cosmetic outcomes. Dr. Nag's expertise spans gastrointestinal, colorectal, liver, pancreatic, gynecologic, and breast cancers and cutting-edge procedures such as HIPEC and PIPAC.

Preparing for surgical oncology involves several steps. Your surgical oncologist will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the best surgical approach. This may include imaging tests, biopsies, and discussions about your medical history and overall health. It's essential to ask questions and express any concerns you may have. Pre-operative instructions will be provided, including dietary restrictions, medication adjustments, and guidelines for hygiene. Understanding the pre-operative process helps alleviate anxiety and ensures a smooth surgical experience.

The goal of surgical oncology is to remove the cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Post-operative care is crucial for recovery and involves pain management, wound care, and monitoring for complications. Rehabilitation may be necessary to regain strength and function. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor for recurrence and address any long-term effects of surgery. Dr. Nag is committed to ethical, evidence-based treatment and strives to make world-class oncology care accessible and affordable for every patient, combining medical excellence with genuine compassion.