Surgical Oncology

Surgical oncology is a specialty that focuses on the surgical treatment of a variety of tumors. Surgery is the oldest form of cancer treatment, and for most patients, part of the curative plan includes surgery. The most important part of the consultation with the surgeon is a complete history and physical exam. The goals of the surgical oncologist are to remove the cancer and an area of healthy tissue surrounding it, also known as a clear margin. Before surgical resection, our specialists are doing diagnostic and staging studies to detect the cancer. This helps the surgeon determine if the cancer is resectable (removable with surgery), and allows him or her to plan the surgical approach. Due to improved screening techniques, many patients have disease that is curable with surgery alone at diagnosis. In such cases, after surgery, the patient's follow-up care includes close observation and/or radiology and lab tests. Although chemotherapy and radiation therapy are commonly used either pre- or post-operatively, a quality surgery is critical because it is not clear that chemotherapy or radiation can correct or compensate for an inadequate surgery. 

Surgery remains the best modality, either by itself or in combination with adjuvant treatments in solid tumors. The Department of Surgery brings to bedside the best diagnostic acumen coupled with the state-of-art surgical expertise. The vast experience of major and minor surgical procedures every year has brought an unmatched excellence to the department. In addition to being a pioneer in the field of surgical oncology in South India, the department has a strong clinical and laboratory aptitude. 

The type of surgery you receive depends on factors such as the location, size, type, grade, and stage of the tumor, as well as your age, general health, and other factors. We often provide other cancer therapies (e.g., chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy) before or after surgery to stop cancer growth, spread or recurrence. The goal of our surgical oncology treatment is to remove the tumor, reconstruct the body part and to relieve symptoms such as pain. Our staff works closely with you to find surgical options best suited to your individual needs and preferences, so you can feel confident in your treatment decisions. Surgery can also help you relieve pain, maintain dignity, and preserve normal function.