Gynecologic Cancers

Detection and Diagnosis

To date, cervical cancer is the only gynecologic cancer for which screening tools are available. The Pap test is used to screen for cervical cancer before a woman experiences symptoms. It can help detect precancerous changes to cells on the cervix. Women between the ages of 21 and 65 are advised to undergo regular Pap tests.

Routine gynecologic exams are critical, but so is early recognition of symptoms, such as abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure and difficulty eating or a quick feeling of fullness. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, let your physician know. She or he will order tests to confirm if any cancer is present, including:

• Computed tomography (CT) scans
• Positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) scans
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Ultrasound
• Blood tests

Upon diagnosis of gynecologic cancer, our multidisciplinary team will work with you to create a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan. This includes, but isn’t limited to:

• Collaborative review that occurs at our monthly Gynecologic Tumor Board, which includes experts in radiology; pathology; gynecologic, medical and radiation oncology; and a genetic counselor. The team develops a preliminary plan best suited to your needs.
• Advanced treatment in state-of-the-art facilities.

Treatment Options

Patients diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer have a number of treatment options available to them, which may include:

Cervical Cancer

• Robotic radical hysterectomy (removal of the uterus, cervix and surrounding soft tissue)
• Fertility-sparing therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
  • HDR brachytherapy

Ovarian Cancer

• Radical pelvic dissection (removal of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix and surrounding tumor)
• Upper abdominal debulking (tumor removal)
• Chemotherapy
• Intraperitoneal chemotherapy (injected directly into the abdominal cavity)
• Clinical trials

Endometrial Cancer

• Robotic surgery
• Fertility-sparing therapy
• Hormonal therapy
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy

Vaginal and Vulvar Cancer

• Partial or radical vulvectomy (removal of the vulva) and vaginectomy (removal of the vagina)
• Sentinel lymph node biopsy and lymphadenectomy
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy