Surgical Oncology
A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. And knowing that you need cancer removal surgery can cause additional stress. Our surgical oncology program includes experienced surgeons providing leading-edge care in a safe, compassionate environment.
Why choose us for surgical oncology?
Cancer surgery can be a lifesaving part of cancer treatment. The experts at Saint Luke’s Cancer Institute provide early detection, expert diagnosis, personalized treatment options, and survivorship support to every patient. And with multiple locations across the Kansas City region, that care is always close to home.
- Multidisciplinary team: We bring multiple experts together to develop a personalized cancer treatment plan for you. Your team may include surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, oncology nurses, and others to meet all your care needs.
- Subspecialty training: Our surgical oncologists complete advanced fellowship training focused on specific cancer types and complex cancer procedures, providing highly specialized expertise for even the most challenging diagnoses.
- Minimally invasive options: Our surgeons use the latest minimally invasive techniques, including laparoscopic, robot-assisted, and laser surgery options. With smaller incisions, these techniques offer faster recoveries with less pain than traditional cancer surgeries.
- Compassionate care: We understand you may feel overwhelmed and anxious about surgery. Rest assured that our team is here to answer your questions and deliver the emotional support you need during this time.
- Seamless experience: We make it easy for you to focus on your healing with a dedicated care navigator to schedule your appointments, coordinate transportation, and connect you with resources whenever needed.
What is surgical oncology?
Surgical oncology, or cancer surgery, is the surgical removal of tumors, tissue, or lymph nodes affected by cancer. Thanks to advances in modern medicine and clinical trial discoveries, surgical oncology is rapidly evolving to treat cancer with better results and fewer side effects.
There are three main categories of cancer surgery:
- Diagnostic surgery: Diagnostic surgeries can help diagnose a specific type of cancer and determine its stage.
- Cancer treatment: Our surgeons have specialized training in cancer surgery. Their knowledge and expertise allow them to identify the procedure that’s best for you.
- Preventive surgery: People with a strong family history of cancer or certain risk factors may benefit from prevention surgeries, such as a mole removal or preventive mastectomy. Our team can evaluate your cancer risk and help you make an informed decision.
Surgery as part of cancer treatment
Not all people with cancer need cancer surgery. Depending on the diagnosis, some cancers may be treated with chemotherapy or radiation therapy alone. Surgery is often recommended to remove a tumor, determine whether cancer has spread, relieve symptoms or help reduce cancer risk in certain high-risk patients. Your provider will be able to evaluate your condition and provide a clear recommendation.
Surgical oncology may be recommended as part of a treatment plan for patients with a wide variety of cancers, including:
Search for a specialist
Our highly trained team of specialists offers advanced treatments as well as compassionate, personalized care.
Types of cancer surgery
There are several types of surgery available to people with cancer. Surgeries may be used in coordination with other types of treatment, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Our team is experienced in routine and complex surgical procedures, including: