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Surgery is the initial procedure in the treatment of many solid cancers. Surgery and other invasive procedures work by removing cancerous tissues.
Surgical removal of the uterus is recommended for all stages of uterine cancer unless the cancer is widespread. In the early stages, it may be curative.
The standard surgical procedure for uterine cancer is a total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. This involves removing the entire uterus and both ovaries and fallopian tubes. In cases in which the risk of spread to lymph nodes is considered low, some lymph nodes will be removed to check for cancer cells. In more advanced or aggressive forms of the disease, the lymph nodes in the pelvis and possibly around the aorta (the large artery in the abdomen) are removed more completely.
During the procedure, the doctor may take samples from other tissue to check for cancer cells. This is done to determine the cancer’s stage.
A cut is made in the lower abdomen to expose the tissues and blood vessels that surround the uterus and cervix. These tissues are cut and the blood vessels are tied off to remove the uterus. Stitches are placed in these deep structures, which will eventually dissolve. The uterus is removed and the vagina is closed to prevent infection and to keep the intestines from dropping downward. You will stay in the hospital for several days.
For Stage I disease, surgery provides 90% five-year survival rates.
References:
American Cancer Society website. Available at: http://www.cancer.org/ .
Bast R, Kufe D, Pollock R, et al, eds. Cancer Medicine. 5th ed. Hamilton, Ontario: BC Decker Inc; 2000.
National Cancer Institute website. Available at: http://www.nci.nih.gov/ .
Rakel R. Bope E, ed. Conn's Current Therapy. 54th ed. St. Louis, MO: WB Saunders; 2002: 1094-1096.
Last reviewed September 2009 by Mohei Abouzied, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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