Knowledge Center
Medical Oncology
| 09 December 2025
Cancer ranks among the most formidable health issues globally, impacting millions of individuals annually. Although treatment methods like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy have seen considerable advancements, cancer surgery continues to be one of the most effective and commonly employed treatment approaches. It is essential for diagnosing, treating, and preventing the spread of cancer.
Grasping the necessity and rationale for cancer surgery can aid patients and their families in making knowledgeable choices amid challenging circumstances. This blog examines the various types of cancer surgeries, their objectives, indications for use, factors influencing doctors’ decisions, and what patients can expect both before and after the operation.
The removal of cancerous tissue from the body is part of cancer surgery. Depending on the cancer's stage and type, it may also involve the removal of surrounding tissue, lymph nodes, or organs. For treatment, diagnosis, staging, or palliative purposes, surgery may be performed.
For cancers that are localized to one area of the body and have not spread extensively, it is frequently the first treatment option.
Depending on the patient’s condition, cancer surgery can fulfill several essential functions. Below are the primary factors that may lead physicians to advise surgery:
When the tumor is localized, the goal of curative surgery is to fully eradicate the cancer. Its effectiveness is greatest when the tumor has not metastasized to other areas of the body.
Curative surgeries include the following examples:
A successful curative surgery can result in long-term remission.
At times, imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs do not suffice to confirm cancer. In such instances, an operation might be carried out to excise tissue samples for biopsy purposes.
Diagnostic surgeries help:
To gauge the extent of cancer's progression, physicians may carry out an operation. This is referred to as staging surgery. It assists in establishing:
In order to plan adequate treatment, it is essential to stage accurately.
In cases where the cancer is too large or has spread too extensively for complete removal, physicians may still excise a part of it. This is carried out for the purpose of:
Debulking surgery is a common treatment for ovarian cancer, advanced abdominal cancers, and certain types of brain tumors.
The goal of palliative surgery is not to cure cancer; rather, it aims to alleviate symptoms resulting from the growth of cancer. It might be useful:
This surgical procedure contributes to an enhanced quality of life for the patient.
Some surgeries for cancer can alter how a person looks or how their body functions. Reconstructive surgery aids in regaining normal function or appearance.
Instances consist of:
Some people with a high genetic risk may have preventive surgery. This entails excising tissue or organs prior to the onset of cancer.
Examples:
Several factors are taken into account by doctors when recommending surgery for cancer. The following are the typical circumstances under which surgery is required:
When cancer is localized to a single area and has not metastasized, surgery proves to be the most effective treatment. Surgery is a common treatment for solid tumors, including breast, colon, lung, kidney, and skin cancers.
Surgery may be necessary to alleviate symptoms like pain, bleeding, or blockage caused by tumors, even if it is not possible to completely cure the cancer.
To avert a swift dissemination to other organs, it may be necessary to urgently excise aggressive tumors.
At times, surgery is carried out prior to or following other treatments:
When physicians think that excising the tumor raises the chances of survival or long-term remission, an operation is required.
Surgery is necessary for a precise diagnosis when imaging fails to clearly detect cancer.
Individuals with a strong family history of cancer or genetic mutations may need preventive surgery to reduce the risk of developing cancer in the future.
There are cancer surgeries that vary in their degree of invasiveness: some are minimally invasive, while others are major procedures. The primary categories consist of:
The conventional technique consists of excising the tumor along with adjacent tissue through a sizable cut. It is frequently utilized when:
These techniques use smaller cuts and allow for quicker recuperation:
Minimally invasive methods are commonly employed for cancers of the prostate, uterus, colon, and kidneys.
Laser beams serve the purpose of eliminating cancer cells or reducing the size of tumors. Common for:
This technique utilizes liquid nitrogen to freeze and eliminate cancer cells. Utilized for:
An expert technique for excising skin cancers in layers, while keeping healthy skin intact.
To look for and extract tumors from organs like the colon, lungs, or stomach, doctors utilize a flexible tube equipped with a camera (endoscope).
Prior to making a decision regarding surgery for cancer, physicians assess various elements:
Solid tumors and early-stage cancers are best treated with surgery.
It may be difficult to excise tumors located close to blood vessels or vital organs in their entirety.
Patients must be suitable for anesthesia and recovery from surgery.
If the tumor is likely to spread or metastasize, surgery is given priority.
Surgery may have a higher success rate if chemotherapy or radiation has already decreased the size of the tumor.
These elements assist in assessing the safety and advantages of surgery.
Like any major medical procedure, cancer surgery comes with risks. These include:
However, modern surgical techniques and post-operative care significantly reduce complications.
The duration of recovery depends on the kind of surgery, the patient's health condition, and the severity of the cancer. Common aspects after surgery include:
Drugs help manage discomfort while recovering.
After major surgeries, physiotherapy may be necessary to regain mobility or strength.
Surgical wounds must be kept clean by patients, who should also monitor for signs of infection.
Regular examinations assist in monitoring healing and identifying recurrences.
It can be emotionally challenging to undergo surgery for cancer. Mental well-being is aided by assistance from caregivers, counselors, and support groups.
In modern cancer care, surgery for cancer is an essential resource. Whether it is used for diagnosis, treatment, symptom control, or prevention, it is vital for enhancing patient survival and quality of life. Cancer surgery can be daunting, but comprehension of its necessity and rationale provides patients and their families with the knowledge they need to make sound choices.
Through close collaboration with oncologists, surgeons, and healthcare teams, individuals can select the most suitable treatment plan for their needs—and advance toward recovery and improved health.
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Jaslok Hospital ranks among the top cancer care institutions in India, providing cutting-edge surgical treatments supported by the latest technology and years of clinical expertise. The hospital offers tailored treatment plans aimed at achieving optimal results, thanks to a team of highly skilled oncologists, surgeons, and multidisciplinary specialists. Jaslok Hospital brings together precision, innovation, and compassionate care in its cancer treatment, from minimally invasive tumor surgeries to complex oncological procedures, making it a reliable choice for cancer treatment and long-term recovery.
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