Surgical oncology

Surgical Oncology is a specialized area of surgery focused on the management and treatment of cancer. This discipline involves the surgical removal of tumors, both malignant and benign, and plays a pivotal role in the multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment.

Scope of Surgical Oncology

Surgical oncologists are trained to perform surgeries for a wide range of cancers. They work closely with medical and radiation oncologists to provide comprehensive care for cancer patients. Surgical oncologists are also involved in performing biopsies that aid in the diagnosis and staging of cancer.

Common Cancers Treated

Surgical oncologists handle various types of cancers, including, but not limited to:

Breast cancer
Gastrointestinal cancers, such as those of the stomach, small bowel, colon, and rectum
Liver cancer
Pancreatic cancer
Bile duct cancer
Endocrine cancers, including thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal cancers
Skin cancer
Lung cancer

Gynecologic Oncology

Gynecologic Oncology is a related specialty that focuses specifically on cancers of the female reproductive system, such as uterine and ovarian cancers.

Training and Certification

Surgeons in this field complete a general surgery residency followed by a fellowship in surgical oncology. They are often certified by the American Board of Surgery, with additional specialized credentials in oncology surgery.

Surgical Techniques

Techniques used by surgical oncologists include:

Traditional open surgeries
Minimally invasive surgeries, such as laparoscopic or robotic-assisted procedures
Organ-preserving surgeries to maintain function and quality of life

Research and Advancements

Surgical oncology is a rapidly evolving field with ongoing research aimed at improving surgical techniques, discovering new cancer therapies, and understanding tumor biology to enhance patient outcomes.

List of Surgical Oncologists (USA)

US territories

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