Gynecologic Cancers

Pathologists with specific training in gynecologic cancers use advanced technology to make a precise diagnosis. Your doctor may order one or more tests that create detailed pictures of your organs, including: 

Imaging tests

• Computed tomography (CT): We take many X-rays from different angles to produce cross-sections of specific areas.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): This procedure uses magnetic fields and radio waves to generate images.
• Ultrasound: We use high-frequency sound waves to produce images of structures in your body.
• Positron Emission Tomography (PET): We use a special dye containing radioactive tracers to check for disease.

Other diagnostic procedures

• Colposcopy:  Using an instrument with a magnifying lens and light (colposcope) to check for changes in cervical and vaginal tissues and take tissue samples.
• Hysteroscopy: Using a thin, lighted, flexible tube (hysteroscope) to see inside the cervix and uterus. During this procedure, we can take tissue samples, remove polyps or fibroid tumors, or treat cancerous tissue.
• Dilation and curettage (D&C): Expanding the cervix to remove and check unusual tissue from the cervical canal and uterine lining.
• Biopsy: Removing a small tissue sample and examining it under a microscope to check for signs of cancer.
• Blood tests: Checking your blood for tumor markers linked to cancer.
• Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP): Using a wire loop to remove and test cells and tissue.

 Your care for gynecologic cancer may include:

Chemotherapy and other medical oncology for gynecologic cancer: Medical oncology is a group of treatments, including chemotherapy, that use drugs and other substances to fight cancer cells. Read more about chemotherapy and other medical oncology. As part of our medical oncology services, we’re among only a few local providers to perform hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for eligible patients. This innovative treatment for ovarian cancer uses heated chemotherapy drugs to effectively target and fight cancer cells.

Radiation therapy for gynecologic cancer: We offer several types of radiation therapy, using rays of energy to shrink the cancer or remove traces of cancer that remain after surgery.

Surgery for gynecologic cancer: You may need cancer surgery to remove the tumor or affected organs. To ease your recovery, our specially trained gynecologic oncologists can often operate using minimally invasive methods, including:

• Laparoscopy: We make small incisions in the abdomen and use a thin, flexible instrument with a camera on the tip to guide the procedure.
• Robotic surgery: Your surgeon uses a robotic system to assist in laparoscopic procedures. The robot allows us to operate using 3D vision and precise movements.

Supportive care for gynecologic cancer: Treating disease is only part of our team approach. You receive care to support your body, mind and spirit through:

• Nutritional counseling to help manage dietary and hydration needs
• Oncology social workers who help you access practical assistance such as individual counseling, support groups and applying for Social Security disability
• Lymphedema therapy to address this potential side effect of treatment
• Pelvic and sexual dysfunction therapy to address another potential side effect of gynecologic cancer and its treatment
• Integrative medicine services, including acupuncture, massage, reflexology, reiki, tai chi, and herbal and supplement consultation
• A gynecologic cancer survivorship program to help you cope with post-treatment issues and live well after treatment