Onco Surgery
Onco Surgery & Surgical Cancer Care
Onco Surgery, also known as surgical oncology, is a specialized field of medicine focused on the surgical evaluation and treatment of cancer and certain abnormal growths. Surgery may be used to remove a tumour, obtain tissue for diagnosis or manage complications associated with cancer.
At Habib Hospital, patients can enquire about surgical evaluation for suspected or diagnosed cancer. The appropriate treatment plan depends on the type of cancer, its location, stage, overall health and the patient's individual needs.
Cancer treatment may involve surgery alone or a combination of treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy or immunotherapy. A multidisciplinary approach may be recommended depending on the diagnosis.
Understanding Surgical Oncology
Surgical oncology focuses on determining whether an operation may help diagnose, remove or manage a cancer. Before recommending surgery, the specialist reviews the patient's medical history, examination findings, biopsy results and relevant imaging reports.
The aim of treatment may be to remove the cancer completely when possible, reduce the tumour burden, relieve symptoms or help establish an accurate diagnosis. The expected benefits and limitations of surgery vary according to each patient's condition.
- Surgical evaluation of suspected cancers
- Assessment of diagnosed tumours
- Evaluation for tumour removal surgery
- Review of biopsy and imaging reports
- Treatment planning with relevant specialists
- Post-operative care and follow-up guidance
Breast Cancer Surgery
Breast cancer surgery may be recommended to remove cancerous tissue from the breast. The appropriate procedure depends on the size and location of the tumour, the extent of the disease and other medical considerations.
Surgical options may include breast- conserving surgery or mastectomy. In selected cases, lymph node assessment or reconstruction may also be considered.
Treatment planning may involve coordination with medical oncology, radiology, pathology and other specialists to determine the appropriate sequence of care.
Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery
Gastrointestinal cancers affect organs of the digestive system, including the stomach, colon, rectum and other abdominal structures.
Depending on the location and stage of the cancer, surgery may involve removing the affected tissue along with surrounding structures or lymph nodes when indicated.
Before treatment, the specialist evaluates diagnostic reports, the extent of the disease and the patient's overall fitness for surgery. Additional treatments may be recommended before or after an operation.
Head & Neck Cancer Surgery
Head and neck cancers can affect areas such as the mouth, tongue, throat and related structures. Treatment depends on the location, size and extent of the tumour.
Surgery may be considered to remove cancerous tissue and, when appropriate, affected lymph nodes. Some patients may also require reconstructive procedures or additional cancer treatment.
The treatment plan should consider essential functions such as speech, swallowing and appearance, along with the medical goals of treatment.
Gynaecological Cancer Surgery
Gynaecological cancers can affect the uterus, ovaries, cervix and other parts of the female reproductive system.
Depending on the diagnosis, surgical treatment may involve removing the affected organ or tissue, assessing nearby lymph nodes or performing other procedures as indicated.
Treatment decisions depend on the cancer type, stage, age, overall health and individual circumstances. Fertility preservation and future reproductive considerations may be discussed when relevant.
Urological Cancer Surgery
Urological cancers may affect organs such as the kidneys, bladder and prostate. Symptoms and treatment options vary according to the affected organ and the stage of disease.
Surgical management may involve removing a tumour or, in selected cases, part or all of the affected organ. The appropriate approach depends on the diagnosis and available treatment options.
Patients may require coordinated care involving surgical oncology, urology, medical oncology and other specialists.
Soft Tissue Tumours & Sarcomas
Soft tissue tumours can develop in muscles, fatty tissue, connective tissue and other structures. Some are benign, while others may be malignant.
Evaluation may include imaging and a biopsy to establish the diagnosis. For selected malignant tumours, surgery may be recommended to remove the affected tissue while considering the surrounding structures.
Biopsy & Tumour Evaluation
A biopsy involves collecting a tissue sample for examination. It can help determine whether an abnormal growth is cancerous and identify the type of cells involved.
Not every tumour requires immediate surgical removal. The appropriate diagnostic approach depends on the location of the growth, imaging findings and clinical assessment.
Biopsy results, scans and other investigations help the treating team discuss the diagnosis and suitable treatment options.
Minimally Invasive Cancer Surgery
Certain operations may be performed using minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy, where clinically appropriate. These techniques use smaller incisions and specialized instruments.
The suitability of minimally invasive surgery depends on the type of cancer, its extent, the required procedure and the surgeon's clinical assessment.
Minimally invasive techniques are not suitable for every cancer operation. The safest and most appropriate approach should be determined individually.
Pre-operative Assessment
Before surgery, patients undergo an assessment to understand their medical condition and readiness for the proposed procedure.
Depending on the planned operation, this may include blood tests, imaging, anaesthesia assessment and review of existing medical conditions and medications.
Patients should discuss allergies, current medicines and any concerns with their healthcare team. The team will provide instructions for preparing for surgery.
Recovery After Cancer Surgery
Recovery varies according to the procedure, the underlying cancer and the patient's overall health. Some patients require a hospital stay, while others may be discharged earlier depending on their recovery.
Post-operative care may include wound care, pain management, nutrition guidance, gradual return to activity and scheduled follow-up appointments.
Patients should follow the discharge instructions provided by their treating team and report concerning symptoms promptly.
Additional Treatment & Follow-up
Depending on the cancer type and stage, surgery may be followed by chemotherapy, radiotherapy or other treatments. In some cases, additional treatment may be recommended before surgery.
Regular follow-up helps the healthcare team review recovery, discuss pathology results and plan further care. The timing and nature of follow-up depend on the patient's diagnosis and treatment plan.
When Should You Consult a Surgical Oncologist?
A surgical oncology consultation may be appropriate if you have been diagnosed with cancer, have a suspicious tumour requiring evaluation or have been advised to consider an operation.
- A confirmed cancer diagnosis
- An abnormal growth requiring further evaluation
- Review of biopsy or scan results
- Discussion of surgical treatment options
- A second opinion about a proposed operation
- Follow-up after cancer surgery
Our Approach to Surgical Cancer Care
A cancer diagnosis can raise many questions for patients and their families. Understanding the diagnosis and available treatment options is an important part of planning care.
An individualized approach considers the medical findings, the potential benefits and risks of treatment, recovery needs and the patient's preferences. Coordination between relevant specialists may help support informed treatment decisions.
Book an Onco Surgery Consultation
If you or a family member needs evaluation for a suspected or diagnosed cancer, contact Habib Hospital to enquire about surgical oncology consultation availability.
Please bring relevant biopsy reports, scan images, previous medical records and a list of current medicines to your appointment where available.
Important: The need for surgery and the appropriate treatment plan depend on the individual diagnosis. A consultation is required to discuss suitable options.