Gynaecology and Obstetrics

What Is Gynecologic Oncology Surgery?

Gynecologic oncology surgery is the medical specialty that focuses on the treatment of cancers and precancerous conditions affecting the female genital organs. Gynecologic oncologists are physicians who have completed extensive and rigorous training to specialize in this field. In recent years, as the incidence of gynecologic cancers has increased, gynecologic oncology surgeons play a critical role in early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.

Comprehensive gynecologic oncology care is multidisciplinary. In addition to the gynecologic oncologist, the treatment team often includes medical oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, oncology nurses, and radiation oncologists. Diagnosis and treatment of gynecologic oncology patients are carried out through detailed examinations and advanced diagnostic tests.

Gynecologic oncology surgery addresses women’s health comprehensively, covering cancers of the female reproductive system from the external genital organs (vulva) to the ovaries, and focuses on effective cancer treatment.

The main types of gynecologic cancers include:

Types of Gynecologic Cancers

Vulvar Cancer

Vulvar cancer is a type of external genital cancer affecting the skin surrounding the vaginal opening, including the labia and clitoris. The most common and significant cause of vulvar cancer is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Vulvar cancer is a treatable disease; however, as with all cancers, prevention and early detection provide the most effective outcomes.

Endometrial Cancer

The endometrium is the inner lining of the uterus, which thickens during each menstrual cycle and is shed during menstruation if pregnancy does not occur. If pregnancy occurs, the embryo implants in this lining. Endometrial cancer is more common after menopause due to changes in this renewal mechanism. It is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers of the female reproductive system.

Ovarian Cancer

The ovaries are reproductive organs located on both sides of the uterus. They produce eggs and secrete the primary female reproductive hormones, estrogen and progesterone. Although the exact cause of ovarian cancer is not fully understood, it is one of the most lethal gynecologic cancers due to its tendency to be diagnosed at advanced stages.

Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer develops in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina and dilates during childbirth. The primary cause of cervical cancer is HPV infection. With regular screening and follow-up programs, cervical cancer can be detected early and largely prevented.

Treatment Methods Used in Gynecologic Oncology

Gynecologic oncology treatment includes various diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, most notably surgical intervention, chemotherapy, brachytherapy, and medical treatments. These methods are described below:

Brachytherapy

Brachytherapy is a form of internal radiotherapy. It involves placing small radioactive sources inside the body to deliver radiation directly to cancerous cells. One of the main advantages of brachytherapy is that it allows a high dose of radiation to be delivered to a small target area while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

Colposcopy

Colposcopy is a diagnostic and imaging method rather than a treatment procedure. It allows detailed and magnified examination of the cervix, vagina, and vulva using a lighted instrument called a colposcope. Biopsy samples can be taken from early-stage cancerous tissues that are not visible to the naked eye, enabling early detection and intervention before cancer progresses.

Vulvectomy

Vulvectomy is a surgical procedure used in the treatment of cancers of the external female genital organs (vulva). Depending on the extent of the disease, part or all of the external genital tissue may be removed.

Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy

Chemotherapy refers to drug-based cancer treatment that targets and inhibits the growth of cancer cells. Radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors over time. Both methods are commonly used either alone or in combination with surgery, depending on the stage and type of cancer.

As with all types of cancer, the most critical factors in gynecologic cancers are early diagnosis and regular screening. Do not neglect routine screening tests and regular gynecological examinations to protect your health.