Gynecologic oncology surgery treats cancers of the cervix, uterus, ovaries, vagina and vulva. The operation depends on the cancer type, its stage and whether the patient wishes to preserve fertility. A surgical oncologist in Mumbai plans the operation with the gynaecology and oncology teams, so that surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy fit into one plan.

Evaluation includes examination, imaging, blood markers and biopsy. In some early cancers, a smaller operation may be possible, while advanced ovarian cancer may require extensive surgery to remove all visible disease. Surgery is often combined with chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

Patients are told how the operation may affect fertility, periods, bladder function, sexual health and the onset of menopause.

Gynecologic oncology services at Apex include:

• Hysterectomy for Cancer: Removal of the uterus, sometimes with the cervix, tubes, ovaries and nearby lymph nodes, planned according to the type and stage of cancer.
• Radical Surgery for Cervical Cancer: A wider operation that removes the cervix, surrounding tissue and pelvic lymph nodes for selected early cervical cancers.
• Ovarian Cancer Debulking: Removal of as much visible tumour as can be safely taken, which helps chemotherapy work better in advanced ovarian cancer.
• Fertility and Menopause Counselling: Discussion of options to preserve fertility where possible and management of menopausal symptoms after surgery.