Surgical Oncology

Reasons for Cancer Surgery

Removing all of the cancer cells from the body gives patients the best chance of curing their cancer. Even removing part of the cancer can improve the success of other treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy.

The oncology surgeons at Bassett Healthcare Network may also perform cancer surgery for the following reasons:

• Prevention – Individuals who are at high risk for a future cancer diagnosis may choose surgery to lower their risk. For example, a woman at high risk for breast cancer may undergo a double mastectomy to drastically reduce her risk
• Diagnosis – It is often necessary to remove part or all of a tumor in order to perform a biopsy and determine whether or not it is malignant
• Staging – Our oncologists may recommend surgery to determine the stage of a cancer, based on the tumor’s size or other developments discovered during surgery
• Palliative care – Surgical oncology can reduce the symptoms of advanced cancer, such as pain caused by a tumor pressing on an organ

Types of Cancer Surgery

Our surgical oncologists may recommend minimally invasive cancer removal surgery if you have a small tumor. If you have multiple tumors or a large growth, they will most often suggest a traditional open surgery with general anesthesia.

At the Bassett Cancer Institute, your surgical oncologist will collaborate with radiologists and other specialists to help you through the entire process.

Recovery

Some minimally invasive surgical oncology procedures may be performed on an outpatient basis and require less recovery time. For major surgery, you may spend several days in the hospital to safely recover. Pain management, medications, and additional treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, may also be part of your cancer treatment plan.

Get a Referral for Surgical Oncology

Our oncology surgeons perform cancer surgery for a range of cancers. Ask your primary care practitioner or specialist for a referral, or call 1-800-BASSETT.

Bassett Healthcare Network offers surgical oncology in Central New York, including Cooperstown, Cobleskill, Oneonta, Herkimer, Little Falls, Delhi, and beyond.