Surgery is one of the mainstays of cancer treatment and diagnosis. It offers the best chance of cure, especially during the early stages of cancer. During cancer surgery, a surgeon will remove the entire tumor, or at least as much as they possibly can, without damaging nearby organs. This article will explain reasons your doctors might suggest surgery, possible risks associated with cancer surgery, and what to expect if you opt for surgery.

Cancers treated with surgery

Not all types of cancer are treated with surgery. For example, surgery is often not used for leukemia (cancers of the blood) and lymphoma (cancer of the lymphatic system). Other treatments, like radiation therapy and chemotherapy, may be more suitable for these types of cancer.

In general, some factors come into play for a doctor know if you require surgery; these include:

• Cancer type
• Size or if the cancer has metastasized (spread)
• Location of the tumor
• Your overall health

That said, some cancers that may be treated with surgery include:

• Breast cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Liver cancer
• Rectal cancer
• Lung cancer
• Stomach cancer

Reasons why you might need cancer surgery

There are several reasons your doctor may recommend cancer surgery. Some of these include:

Primary treatment

For many solid tumors, surgery may be suggested to remove all or some part of the tumors. This type of surgery is sometimes called curative surgery, as the intent is to achieve a cure. Your doctor may recommend that you also receive radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy to treat your cancer.

Cancer Diagnosis

Surgery in the form of a tumor biopsy can also be used to diagnose your cancer and determine its stage, expression of specific tumor markers, and other key information. This is often a minimally invasive surgery. For biopsies, the surgeon removes a small part of the tumor tissue so a lab test can be performed to determine if the cell is cancerous and also how advanced it is.

Debulking

Debulking surgery removes as much of a cancerous tumor as possible, especially in certain situations when removing the entire tumor may damage an organ. Debulking may be used with other types of cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy and radiation. By reducing the tumor’s size, debulking can make subsequent treatments more effective.

Staging

Cancer staging surgery is used to determine the extent of the cancer spread and the size of the tumor. This information can help your doctor determine the cancer stage and the best treatment plan.

Cancer prevention

Surgery may also be recommended as a preventive strategy, especially if the surgeon or physician suspects a tissue may develop into a malignant tumor. For example, women at high risk of developing breast cancer due to specific genetic mutations may opt for prophylactic mastectomy (removal of one or both breasts).

Improve symptoms or relieve side effects.

Surgery may also be used to relieve symptoms like severe pain caused by cancer, especially when the tumor is pressing on nerves, organs, or other structures. 

Risk of surgery for cancer

Cancer surgery may come with some possible side effects, though they are generally manageable and not life-threatening. These side effects can include: 

• Bleeding
• Pain and discomfort
• Damage to nearby tissues or other organs
• Infections
• Drug reactions to anesthesia
• Scarring

How is cancer surgery typically performed?

During surgery, a surgeon often uses small knives called scalpels to cut through the skin, muscles, and bones. Usually, you are placed under anesthesia to keep you from feeling pain during surgery. 

• Cryosurgery: In cryosurgery, the surgeon uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy cancerous cells. This process is commonly used to treat external tumors, such as certain skin cancers.
• Laser surgery: A strong beam of energy is used to target and destroy cancerous or abnormal cells precisely. This surgery targets tissue with high accuracy, minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
• Robotic surgery: The surgeon sits at a console and controls robotic arms equipped with tiny instruments to perform precise movements in the surgical area. It is commonly used for prostate, gynecologic, and colorectal cancers.

What to expect before and after cancer surgery

Here are some things to keep in mind before and after cancer surgery:

Before cancer

• You may be restricted from eating or drinking anything after midnight on the day of the surgery to decrease the risk of vomiting and nausea. Your doctor may allow clear liquids before anesthesia, but make sure to clear this up with the team.
• Depending on the surgery, you might need tests such as bloodwork, EKGs, or imaging scans.
• You will be asked to stay away from alcohol or smoking at least 24 hours before the surgery.
• You may need to stop certain medications.
• Choose loose, comfortable clothing that you will wear after the surgery.
• Discuss any worries or fears you have with your doctor, nurse, or counselor. Also, discuss any possible risks and recovery expectations.

After cancer surgery

• After surgery, you’ll be taken to a recovery room to be closely monitored as the anesthesia wears off.
• The length of your hospital stay after cancer surgery varies depending on the type of surgery. Some cancer surgeries are regularly performed outpatient, such as breast cancer surgery.
• You may experience pain and discomfort. However, you will be placed on a painkiller if necessary.
• Depending on the surgery, you may notice drips, a catheter, or even an oxygen mask when you wake. 
• You will need time to rest. Get at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night.
• You may not be able to eat and drink immediately, depending on your operation.
• Move gradually to aid recovery. Physical therapy may be part of your plan, especially for surgeries affecting mobility.

Keep in mind that everyone may respond differently to surgery, so it’s best to follow your surgeon’s or healthcare provider’s instructions.

Bottomline

Surgery may appear scary, but it’s a relatively safe procedure for most patients. While we hope you won’t need surgery, if you do, it’s not the end of the world. You just need the right team and facilities.

Carrum Health connects you with skilled surgeons who provide quality surgical care at affordable costs and are committed to ensuring you only undergo surgery when it’s truly necessary. For more information, contact us today.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. No material is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.