Services List
Cytoreductive Surgery for Ovarian Cancer – Dr. Joy Ghose
Cytoreductive surgery, also known as debulking surgery, is a critical component of ovarian cancer treatment. This surgical procedure aims to remove as much of the tumor as possible, reducing the cancer burden and improving the effectiveness of follow-up therapies such as chemotherapy.
What Is Cytoreductive Surgery?
Cytoreductive surgery involves the removal of visible tumor masses in the abdomen and pelvis. The goal is to leave behind no tumor nodules larger than 1 cm, as smaller residual disease is associated with better outcomes. This procedure is typically performed for advanced-stage ovarian cancer (Stage III or IV) that has spread beyond the ovaries. With his expertise in ovarian cancer surgery in Pune, Dr. Joy Ghose ensures optimal tumor reduction through careful planning and advanced surgical techniques.
Importance in Ovarian Cancer Treatment
Ovarian cancer often presents with vague symptoms, which can delay diagnosis. Cytoreductive surgery is vital because it:
● Reduces Tumor Burden : Removing as much cancer as possible decreases the overall tumor load.
● Enhances Chemotherapy Effectiveness : Smaller residual disease allows chemotherapy to work more efficiently.
● Improves Prognosis : Achieving optimal cytoreduction has been shown to improve progression-free and overall survival rates.
Procedure Overview
The surgery is usually performed through an exploratory laparotomy, where the surgeon evaluates the extent of cancer spread and removes tumor tissue. This may include:
● Removal of ovaries and fallopian tubes
● Partial or complete removal of the uterus
● Resection of affected portions of the bowel, diaphragm, or other organs
In select cases, hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) may be administered during surgery to target microscopic cancer cells. This combined approach has shown promising results in improving survival for patients with advanced ovarian cancer.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Recovery varies but typically includes:
● Hospital Stay : 5 to 7 days, depending on the extent of surgery
● Pain Management : Medications to manage post-operative pain
● Physical Activity : Gradual increase in activity as advised by the healthcare team
● Follow-Up Appointments : Regular visits to monitor recovery and assess additional treatment needs
Post-surgery, adjuvant chemotherapy is often recommended to target any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Why Choose Dr. Joy Ghose?
With over 11 years of experience as a cancer surgeon in Pune, Dr. Joy Ghose specializes in ovarian cancer surgery and comprehensive ovarian cancer treatment. His expertise ensures that patients receive the most effective, personalized surgical care, combined with a patient-focused approach to achieve the best possible outcomes.
FAQs : Cytoreductive Surgery for Ovarian Cancer
Cytoreductive surgery, also called debulking surgery, is a procedure to remove as much of the ovarian cancer tumor as possible. The goal is to reduce tumor size, making other treatments like chemotherapy more effective.
Ovarian cancer often spreads within the abdominal cavity. Cytoreductive surgery helps:
● Remove visible tumors
● Improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy
● Increase the chances of long-term survival
Patients with ovarian cancer, whether newly diagnosed or recurrent, may be candidates. The suitability depends on:
● Tumor size and spread
● Overall health and fitness
● Response to prior treatments
● Primary debulking surgery : Performed before chemotherapy for newly diagnosed ovarian cancer.
● Interval debulking surgery : Done after a few cycles of chemotherapy to reduce tumor size further.
The surgeon removes:
● Ovaries and fallopian tubes
● Uterus (if necessary)
● Tumors in the abdominal lining or other organs, if safe to remove
The goal is “optimal cytoreduction,” meaning minimal residual tumor remains.
Recovery usually takes 4–6 weeks, depending on the extent of surgery. Patients may spend 5–10 days in the hospital initially. Full return to daily activities can vary.
● Bleeding or infection
● Injury to surrounding organs (bladder, bowel)
● Blood clots
● Delayed wound healing
Your surgical team will take precautions to minimize these risks.
Yes. Cytoreductive surgery is usually combined with chemotherapy to target remaining cancer cells. Sometimes chemotherapy is given before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink tumors.
The success depends on achieving optimal cytoreduction, meaning very little visible tumor remains. Patients with minimal residual disease generally have better survival outcomes.
Preparation may include:
● Blood tests and imaging scans
● Nutritional assessment and counseling
● Managing other health conditions
● Discussing medications and anesthesia risks with your doctor