By-Dr Parveen Mendiratta, Head of Department, Surgical Oncology, Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida
Cancer is one of India’s fastest-growing health crises. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), over 14.6 lakh new cancer cases were reported in 2022, and this number is expected to rise to 15.7 lakh by 2025. Among the growing arsenal of treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy, surgery continues to be the single most effective and decisive intervention for many types of cancer.
Surgery is a fundamental part of cancer treatment that involves the removal of tumors. For cancers that are localized and have not spread extensively, surgery can offer the possibility of a complete cure. For example, when tumors are detected early, they can be surgically removed before they spread to other areas of the body, increasing the chances of long-term survival.
For many patients, surgery is not only about curing the disease but also improving their quality of life. Tumors that obstruct vital organs, cause bleeding, or result in debilitating pain can be surgically removed to relieve these symptoms, offering significant comfort and enhanced quality of life for patients, even in advanced stages of cancer.
Surgical Advances in Oncology
Recent advancements in surgical oncology have made treatments less invasive and more precise, leading to faster recovery and fewer complications. Techniques such as minimally invasive surgery, laparoscopic surgery, and robotic-assisted surgery have revolutionized how cancer surgery is performed. These methods allow for smaller incisions, reducing the risk of infection and enabling quicker recovery times.
Even in more advanced stages of cancer, surgery remains important. While it may not cure the cancer, surgical procedures can help manage the disease by removing tumors that cause blockages or pain, greatly improving the patient’s comfort and functionality.
Surgery can also be combined with other treatments like chemotherapy or radiation. For example, surgery may be used to remove the main tumor, followed by chemotherapy to target remaining cancer cells in the body. This combination improves overall treatment outcomes and reduces the risk of recurrence.
Is Surgery Always Necessary?
While surgery is an essential tool in many cancer treatments, it is not always necessary. The decision to proceed with surgery depends on several factors, including the type of cancer, its location, the stage of the disease, and the patient’s overall health. Some cancers may not be suitable for surgery, especially if they have spread widely or if the procedure could pose too much risk to the patient.
However, for many patients where surgery is an option, it remains the most direct and effective approach to fighting cancer. Though it is not a cure-all, surgery continues to be one of the most reliable tools for oncologists when managing the disease.
The Future of Cancer Surgery
The future of surgical oncology is bright, with ongoing innovations in medical technology continuing to improve the precision and outcomes of cancer surgeries. Intraoperative imaging, genetic tumor testing, and the development of targeted therapies are all advancing the field of surgery, helping doctors to make more informed decisions about treatment.
Surgery remains a critical part of cancer treatment, especially when combined with chemotherapy and radiation. It offers the best chance of survival for many patients, particularly in the early stages of the disease. As advancements in surgical technologies continue to evolve, surgery will only become more effective, ensuring it remains a crucial component of cancer care. For anyone facing a cancer diagnosis, consulting a surgical oncologist is essential to understanding the treatment options available and how surgery can improve survival chances and quality of life.