Choosing the Right Surgical Oncologist: A Complete Guide

Each year, cancer contributes to millions of deaths around the world. Treating cancer effectively involves various specialists working together interdependently. In the case of cancer, the surgical oncologist is a key member of the team and has an integral function in the treatment process. These specialists are concerned with auxiliary interventions needed to treat a patient’s ailments in addition to cancer surgery. Patients with cancer rely on many different providers for their treatment, which is why this article considers the role of the surgical oncologist in cancer care.

Who Is a Surgical Oncologist?

Cancer surgery is the sole area of specialization for a surgical oncologist. Alongside basic medical training, they complete specialized training in oncology and surgery, which enables them to diagnose, surgically exercise, and participate in the post-operative care of cancer patients. Cancer patients benefit most from their knowledge because they possess the necessary skills to achieve optimal oncological outcomes by carrying out complex surgical oncology procedures.

Key Responsibilities of a Surgical Oncologist

Surgical oncology is frequently misunderstood as a discipline in which surgical oncologists are solely responsible for conducting surgeries. In fact, they have a much broader scope of work that includes:

1. Cancer Diagnosis

• Taking biopsies to confirm the presence of malignant cells. 

• Analyzing the results of imaging studies, including CT, MRI, and PET scans for tumours.

• Performing endoscopy of hollow organs for internal imaging. 

2. Surgical Treatment of Cancer

• Excision of malignant tumours with conservation of healthy margins.

• Some of the most complex surgeries include: **mastectomy** (breast removal for breast cancer), **colectomy** (colon removal for colon cancer), lung resections, and other operations that fall under cancer surgery.

• Some of the modern techniques include robotic-assisted surgery and laparoscopic surgery which are performed through small incisions.

• Carrying out lymph node dissections for the treatment of cancer.

3. Surgical Care for Before and After the Operation

Diagnosis and explanation of the surgery that will be performed on the patient along with risks and descriptions of anticipated results.

Post-operative care to patients targeting pain management, infection prevention, and overall healing after a procedure.

Teaming with oncologists to consider treatment options like chemotherapy and radiation.

4. Surgical Care for Palliative Intervention

• Symptom relief when complete tumour excision is impossible.

• Aimed at enhancing life by addressing pain and discomfort associated with tumour presence.

• Involves treating complications like fluid retention or intestinal blockages.

Surgeries Done by Surgical Oncologists

A wide range of surgical procedures relevant to cancer depending on the patient's condition and objectives are performed: 

• Curative surgery  which is the attempt to surgically excise a malignant tumour with no spread present. 

• Debulking surgery  is conducted when there are large tumours unable to undergo complete surgical excision. This makes other therapies achievable.

• Palliative Surgery is focused on more enhanced pain and symptom control for patients with very advanced stages of cancer.

• Preventive Surgery This surgical branch cares for women with a familial tendency to develop breast cancer by performing prophylactic mastectomies. Priority is given at this stage for which tissues or organs are at risk, even if there is no cancer identified at the moment; once target tissues are located, they are removed.

• Reconstructive Surgery  These surgeries to reconstruct appearance and functionality post-cancer removal revolve around breast reconstruction post-mastectomy, where care is taken to restore a woman's image as breasts constitute a core part of femininity.

The Importance of Surgical Oncologists in Cancer Treatment

For several reasons, a surgical oncologist is a core part of other cancer treatment providers. These are:

1. Efficient Removal of Tumours

Solid tumours are best treated by excision, and this is done very optimally by surgical oncologists. This type of surgeon specialises in removing solidified masses, knows how menopause can completely change a woman’s body, and applies the most modern methods of operations that allow for the complete removal of the tumour without traumatizing not only the skin but even functional tissues.

2. Fusion of Many Specialties

Other than medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and pathologists, surgical oncologists also form part of surgical teams; hence, surgical oncologists formulate a systematic technique that meets practically every patient's condition and requirements.

3. New Age Surgery

Increased accuracy coupled with reduced recovery times alongside fewer damaging repercussions makes modern surviving gentler and advanced, with the inclusion of robotic operations and laparoscopy.

4. Better Outcomes for Patients

Experienced surgical specialists are more likely to yield positive treatment results for outpatients as studies suggest these patients live longer and are less likely to face obtrusive tumours again.

5. Treatment of Cancer on an Individual Basis

No two cancer patients are alike, therefore surgical oncologists adjust their methods depending on the patient’s cancer, considering its type, location and stage.

Guidelines for Choosing a Surgical Oncologist

To receive treatment in the best way possible, a qualified surgical oncologist needs to be selected. To choose one, keep in mind the following:

Experience and Certification: 

Confirm the surgeon's board certification and that it is in surgical oncology.

Hospital Affiliation: 

Review the reputation of the hospitals where the oncologists work, ensuring they have modern surgical facilities and an oncology department.

Patient Reviews and Success Rates: 

Investigate prior patients' opinions to assess the surgeon's capability and success.

Communication and Support: 

Empathy and clear professional communication from an oncologist is necessary.

Suggested Read: Medical Oncology

To Conclude

Surgical oncologists are important figures at the forefront of cancer diagnosis, treatment, and management. With their knowledge and experience in tumour resection, alongside the brilliance of modern technology and help from other oncology specialists, patient suffering has been alleviated. Consulting a commendable surgical oncologist is essential for competent treatment and recovery if you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with cancer.