An Ovarian Cancer Surgeon in Bangalore can help patients understand the diagnosis, available treatment options, and the importance of timely medical care for ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer develops when abnormal cells in or around the ovaries grow uncontrollably. Treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer, the patient’s overall health, and whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
In this video, Dr. Satish C, Surgical Oncologist, explains how ovarian cancer is treated, the role of surgery in cancer care, and why a personalised treatment plan is important for patients diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the ovaries, which are part of the female reproductive system. The ovaries produce eggs and hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.
Ovarian cancer may develop in different types of cells, with epithelial ovarian cancer being the most common type.
Some symptoms may be subtle during the early stages, which can make ovarian cancer difficult to identify.
Common symptoms may include:
- Persistent bloating or abdominal swelling
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Feeling full quickly while eating
- Difficulty eating or reduced appetite
- Frequent urination or urgency
- Changes in bowel habits
These symptoms can occur due to several other conditions. However, persistent or unusual symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Ovarian cancer diagnosis involves a combination of medical evaluation and investigations. The doctor considers the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and examination findings before recommending further tests.
1. Pelvic Examination
A pelvic examination may help the doctor identify unusual swelling, masses, or other abnormalities that require further investigation.
2. Ultrasound Scan
A pelvic ultrasound, including a transvaginal ultrasound when appropriate, can help examine the ovaries and identify abnormal growths or masses.
3. Blood Tests
A blood test measuring CA-125 may be recommended in certain situations. However, CA-125 alone cannot confirm ovarian cancer because it may also be elevated in non-cancerous conditions.
4. CT Scan and Other Imaging Tests
CT scans and other imaging investigations may help assess the size and location of a tumour and determine whether cancer may have spread to other areas.
5. Tissue Diagnosis
When ovarian cancer is suspected, tissue examination is often needed to confirm the diagnosis and identify the cancer type. The treating team will determine the appropriate approach based on the clinical situation.
Ovarian cancer treatment depends on the cancer type, stage, tumour characteristics, and the patient’s overall health. Treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these approaches.
1. Surgery for Ovarian Cancer
Surgery is an important part of treatment for many patients with ovarian cancer.
The aim may be to remove the tumour and, when appropriate, as much visible cancer as possible. The type of surgery depends on the extent of the disease and the patient’s treatment goals.
Surgical procedures may include:
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Removal of one or both ovaries and fallopian tubes
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Removal of the uterus when indicated
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Removal of nearby tissues or lymph nodes when required
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Removal of visible cancer deposits from the abdomen when appropriate
In selected cases, fertility-sparing surgery may be considered, depending on the cancer type and stage.
A surgical oncologist evaluates the extent of the disease and determines the appropriate surgical approach.
2. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medicines to destroy cancer cells or prevent them from growing.
It may be recommended before or after surgery, depending on the stage of ovarian cancer and the treatment plan.
Chemotherapy before surgery may help shrink the tumour and make surgery more manageable in selected patients. Chemotherapy after surgery may help treat cancer cells that remain in the body.
The medicines and number of treatment cycles depend on the patient’s diagnosis and response to treatment.
3. Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy uses medicines that act on specific characteristics of cancer cells.
Certain patients may benefit from targeted treatments based on their tumour biology or genetic test results.
For example, PARP inhibitors may be considered for some patients with ovarian cancer, particularly in specific BRCA-related or other molecular settings.
The suitability of targeted therapy depends on the cancer type, previous treatment, and relevant test results.
4. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy helps the body’s immune system recognise and fight cancer cells.
It is not routinely suitable for every patient with ovarian cancer. It may be considered in selected cases based on specific tumour characteristics, test results, and the patient’s treatment history.
The oncology team can explain whether immunotherapy is an appropriate option.
Surgery plays an important role in treating many ovarian cancers. The surgical plan depends on how far the cancer has spread and whether the tumour can be safely removed.
1. Removing the Cancer
The surgical team aims to remove the tumour and visible cancer deposits when appropriate. The extent of surgery depends on the patient’s individual condition.
2. Assessing the Spread of Cancer
During surgery, the surgeon may examine the abdominal and pelvic areas and remove selected tissues for further examination.
This helps determine the extent of the disease and supports decisions about additional treatment.
3. Planning Further Treatment
The findings from surgery and the final tissue examination help the oncology team decide whether chemotherapy or other treatments are needed.
Patients may require care from a multidisciplinary team that includes surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists.
Ovarian cancer symptoms may be difficult to recognise because they can resemble common digestive or urinary problems.
Persistent bloating, pelvic discomfort, changes in appetite, or frequent urination should not be ignored, especially when these symptoms are new or unusual.
Early medical evaluation can help identify the cause of symptoms and determine whether further investigations are necessary.
Women with a strong family history of ovarian or breast cancer may also benefit from discussing their risk with a healthcare professional. Genetic counselling and testing may be appropriate for selected individuals.
You may consider consulting a specialist if you have:
- A suspected ovarian mass or abnormal scan finding
- Persistent abdominal bloating or pelvic pain
- A confirmed diagnosis of ovarian cancer
- A family history of ovarian or breast cancer
- Questions about ovarian cancer surgery
- Concerns about treatment options or a second opinion
A Surgical Oncologist in Bangalore can assess the diagnosis, explain the role of surgery, and coordinate with other cancer specialists to plan appropriate treatment.
Conclusion
Ovarian cancer treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of treatments depending on the type and stage of cancer. Early evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and an individualised treatment plan are important for managing the condition. Understanding the available options can help patients and their families make informed decisions about cancer care.
If you or a family member has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, consulting an Ovarian Cancer Surgeon in Bangalore can help you understand the role of surgery and the treatment options available. A Surgical Oncologist in Bangalore can also coordinate with the oncology team to plan personalised care based on the patient’s condition and treatment needs.
FAQ's
Yes. Ovarian cancer can be treated using surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of treatments. The treatment plan depends on the cancer type, stage, and individual medical condition.
Surgery is an important treatment for many patients, but it may not be suitable or necessary in every situation. The oncology team determines the appropriate treatment based on the diagnosis and overall health.
Chemotherapy may be given before surgery to help shrink the tumour or after surgery to treat remaining cancer cells. The timing depends on the stage of cancer and the patient’s clinical condition.
Yes. Some ovarian cancer treatments may affect fertility. In selected cases, fertility-sparing treatment may be possible. Patients who wish to have children in the future should discuss fertility preservation options with their healthcare team before starting treatment.
You should consult a specialist if you have a suspected ovarian mass, persistent pelvic or abdominal symptoms, or a confirmed diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Timely evaluation can help determine the appropriate investigations and treatment options.
