Dr. Senthilkumar A C
Surgical oncology is a specialized field of medicine focused on the surgical treatment of cancer. Surgeons who specialize in surgical oncology, known as surgical oncologists, are highly trained in the surgical management of various types of cancer. Their expertise lies in performing surgical procedures to remove cancerous tumors and adjacent tissues while preserving as much healthy tissue and function as possible.
Surgical oncologists work closely with multidisciplinary teams of oncologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and other healthcare professionals to develop individualized treatment plans for cancer patients. They play a crucial role in the overall management of cancer, often serving as the primary caregivers for patients undergoing surgical interventions.
Key responsibilities of surgical oncologists include:
- Diagnosis and Staging: Surgical oncologists are involved in obtaining tissue biopsies for diagnosis and determining the extent (stage) of cancer through surgical procedures and imaging studies.
- Surgical Treatment: They perform various surgical procedures to remove cancerous tumors, lymph nodes, and affected tissues, using advanced techniques to achieve the best possible outcomes while minimizing complications and preserving organ function.
- Preoperative and Postoperative Care: Surgical oncologists provide comprehensive care to cancer patients before and after surgery, including preoperative evaluation, counseling, and preparation, as well as postoperative monitoring, wound care, pain management, and rehabilitation.
- Collaboration and Coordination: Surgical oncologists collaborate closely with other members of the oncology team to ensure integrated and coordinated care for cancer patients, including discussing treatment options, participating in tumor board meetings, and coordinating adjuvant therapies such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
- Clinical Research: Many surgical oncologists are actively involved in clinical research and academic pursuits, contributing to the development of new surgical techniques, treatment protocols, and advancements in cancer care through participation in clinical trials and research studies.
Overall, surgical oncology plays a critical role in the comprehensive management of cancer, offering patients the opportunity for curative treatment, symptom relief, and improved quality of life through surgical interventions tailored to their specific cancer diagnosis and individual needs.