Endometrial cancer surgery

Hearing the words “You have cancer” can feel like the ground beneath you is shaking. When someone you know has been diagnosed with endometrial cancer, her mind races with questions: How serious is it? What are my treatment options? Will I be okay? Fear sets in, but so does determination—she knows she must act quickly.

Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecological cancer, with cases rising steadily in India due to risk factors like obesity and hormonal imbalances. Many women fear surgery, but it remains the most effective treatment for this condition. With advances in minimally invasive and robotic surgery, recovery is now faster and less painful. Knowing the right procedure, its risks, and expected recovery can help ease concerns. Early diagnosis and timely surgical intervention significantly improve survival rates.

What Are the Different Surgical Options for Endometrial Cancer?

The surgical approach depends on the stage and severity of the cancer. Options include:

Total Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus and cervix.
Radical Hysterectomy: Removes uterus, cervix, and nearby tissues.
Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic or Robotic Surgery: Ensures quicker recovery and less pain.
Lymph Node Removal (Lymphadenectomy): Checks for cancer spread. Often performed alongside other surgeries.

What Are the Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer?

Abnormal vaginal bleeding (postmenopausal or heavy periods)
Pelvic pain or discomfort
Unexplained weight loss
Pain during urination or intercourse

How a Patient Might Have Got Diagnosed?

It often starts with mild, seemingly harmless symptoms. Here’s how a patient might go through the diagnosis process:

Noticing Symptoms: Unusual vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, or bloating prompts a visit to the doctor.
Doctor’s Examination: A gynecologist performs a pelvic exam and reviews medical history.
Ultrasound Scan: A transvaginal ultrasound checks for abnormalities in the uterine lining.
Endometrial Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken from the uterus for testing.
Diagnosis Confirmation: If cancer cells are found, further imaging like MRI or CT scans may determine the stage.

What Are the Stages of Endometrial Cancer?

Endometrial cancer is classified using the FIGO (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) staging system, which categorizes the disease based on tumor extent, lymph node involvement, and distant spread. This classification helps in planning appropriate treatment and predicting prognosis.

Stage	Description
Stage I	Confined to the uterine corpus and ovary.
Stage II	Invasion of cervical stroma with no extrauterine extension or aggressive histological type with myometrial invasion.
Stage III	Local and/or regional metastasis of any histological subtype.
Stage IV	Spread to the bladder mucosa, intestinal mucosa, or distant metastasis.

What should I do if I have symptoms of endometrial cancer?

Do not ignore unusual bleeding or pelvic pain. See a gynecologist immediately for evaluation and necessary tests. Early detection leads to better treatment outcomes.

When Is Surgery Recommended for Endometrial Cancer?

Surgery is recommended when biopsy results confirm cancerous growth in the uterus lining. For early-stage cancers, surgery alone may be enough to remove all cancerous cells. If cancer has spread, surgery is often combined with radiation or chemotherapy. An Endometrial cancer surgery specialist in Mumbai can determine the best approach for your case.

What Is the Success Rate of Endometrial Cancer Surgery?

Success rates depend on the stage at diagnosis.

Stage 1: Surgery alone offers a 90-95% survival rate.
Stage 2: Success rates remain high with a combination of surgery and radiation.
Advanced Stages: Surgery followed by additional treatments significantly improves outcomes.
Regular follow-ups after surgery reduce the risk of recurrence.

How Painful Is Endometrial Cancer Surgery?

Pain levels vary depending on the type of surgery.

Open surgery: longer recovery.
Minimally invasive (laparoscopic/robotic): Less pain, faster healing.
Post-surgery pain is manageable with medications and typically subsides within a few days. Discuss pain management with your doctor before the procedure.

What Are the Risk Factors for Endometrial Cancer?

Obesity and high estrogen levels
Family history of uterine or colorectal cancer
Diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Long-term use of estrogen therapy without progesterone

What Are the Benefits of Minimally Invasive and Robotic Surgery?

Advanced techniques like robotic surgery offer greater precision and faster recovery.

Smaller incisions reduce pain and post-surgery scarring.
Shorter hospital stays allow quicker return to normal activities.
Lower risk of complications like infections or bleeding.
Consult an expert to determine if robotic surgery is suitable for you.

What to Expect Before the Surgery?

Your doctor will conduct tests like MRI, CT scans, and blood tests to assess cancer spread. You may need to follow dietary restrictions and stop certain medications. Discussing anesthesia, surgical risks, and recovery steps ensures clarity. A well-prepared patient has a smoother surgery and healing process.

What Happens During the Surgery?

Performed under anesthesia for comfort.
Depending on complexity, it takes 2-4 hours.
Minimally invasive procedures involve tiny incisions, while open surgeries require a larger incision.
Post-surgery monitoring ensures there are no immediate complications.

How Long Is the Recovery Process?

Recovery varies based on the type of surgery.

Open surgery: 4-6 weeks for full recovery.
Minimally invasive surgery: 2-3 weeks, with quicker return to routine.
Rest, healthy diet, and gentle physical activity help speed up healing.
Regular follow-ups with your specialist are essential.

What Are the Risks Associated with Endometrial Cancer Surgery?

Like all surgeries, there are potential risks, such as:

Infection or excessive bleeding.
Early menopause if ovaries are removed.
Emotional impact due to hormonal changes.

Will I Need Additional Treatment After Surgery?

Stage 1: Surgery may be sufficient for complete cancer removal.
Advanced Stages: Chemotherapy or radiation might be required.
Hormonal therapy may be an option if cancer is hormone-sensitive.
Your doctor will decide based on post-surgery biopsy reports.

How to Prevent Recurrence After Surgery?

To reduce recurrence risks:

Attend regular follow-ups with clinical examination and imaging tests.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle with proper diet and exercise.
Report unusual symptoms like bleeding or pain immediately. Early intervention improves long-term survival.

Looking for the Best Endometrial Cancer Surgery Specialist in Mumbai?

When it comes to expert surgical care for endometrial cancer, Dr. Maitreyee Parulekar is a trusted name. With expertise in minimally invasive and robotic surgery, she ensures precision treatment with quicker recovery times. Her patient-centric approach helps provide customized treatment plans based on each individual’s condition. If you need an experienced surgeon, don’t hesitate—schedule a consultation today and take the first step towards effective treatment.

Dr. Maitreyee Parulekar, a leading Endometrial Cancer Surgery Specialist in Mumbai, provides top-tier surgical care with cutting-edge techniques. Taking action early can make a significant difference in treatment success. If you or a loved one require professional care, book an appointment today with Dr. Maitreyee Parulekar, an expert Endometrial Cancer Surgery Specialist in Mumbai.