Cancer surgery is a medical procedure aimed at removing a tumor and, in some cases, surrounding tissue to treat or manage cancer. It remains one of the oldest and most widely used methods of treating cancer, proving effective for many types and stages of the disease. The goals of cancer surgery can vary: it may be performed to completely remove the tumor, to restore the function of affected organs, or to alleviate symptoms caused by the cancer.
In addition to treatment, surgery can also help with diagnosis. Surgeons may perform procedures to confirm the presence of cancer, determine its exact location, or assess whether it has spread to other organs or tissues. This information is critical for planning further treatment, such as chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapies.
Cancer surgeries are performed under anesthesia, which blocks pain and allows patients to remain unconscious or comfortable during the procedure. The type of anesthesia depends on the complexity and duration of the surgery. Some procedures require hospitalization for a day or several days, known as inpatient surgery, while others are less invasive and allow patients to go home the same day, referred to as outpatient or ambulatory surgery. Recovery time and care requirements vary depending on the type and extent of the operation.