Cancer Surgery in Mumbai, India
Overview
Cancer surgery is one of the most common treatments for many types of cancer. It involves removing the tumour and, when necessary, a margin of surrounding healthy tissue to help reduce the risk of cancer remaining behind. Depending on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, surgery may be used as the primary treatment or combined with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or hormone therapy.
The goal of cancer surgery is not only to remove cancer, but also to preserve organ function whenever possible and improve the patient's quality of life. Advances in surgical techniques, imaging, and minimally invasive technology have made many cancer procedures safer and more precise.
Types of Cancer Surgery
The type of surgery recommended depends on the cancer's location, size, stage, and whether it has spread. Your surgeon will determine the most appropriate approach after a comprehensive evaluation.
Curative Surgery
Curative surgery aims to remove the entire tumour when the cancer is confined to one area. It is often the primary treatment for many early-stage cancers.
Diagnostic Surgery (Biopsy)
A biopsy involves removing a small sample of tissue for laboratory examination. It helps confirm whether cancer is present and determine the type of cancer before treatment begins.
Staging Surgery
Staging surgery helps determine the extent of cancer spread by examining nearby tissues or lymph nodes. The findings assist doctors in planning the most appropriate treatment.
Debulking Surgery
When complete removal of a tumour is not possible, debulking surgery removes as much of the cancer as safely as possible. Additional treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy are often used afterwards.
Preventive (Prophylactic) Surgery
Preventive surgery removes tissue or an organ that has a very high risk of developing cancer in selected individuals, particularly those with inherited cancer syndromes.
Palliative Surgery
Palliative surgery is performed to relieve symptoms caused by advanced cancer, such as pain, bleeding, bowel obstruction, or difficulty swallowing, with the aim of improving comfort and quality of life.
Reconstructive Surgery
Reconstructive surgery restores the appearance or function of a part of the body following cancer removal. It may be performed immediately after cancer surgery or at a later stage.
Minimally Invasive Cancer Surgery
Selected cancers can be treated using laparoscopic or robotic-assisted techniques through small incisions. These approaches may reduce pain, minimise blood loss, and support a quicker recovery in suitable patients.
Preparation for Cancer Surgery
Careful preparation helps ensure the safest possible surgery and recovery. Your healthcare team will provide personalised instructions based on your condition and the planned procedure.
Medical Evaluation
A detailed assessment includes reviewing your medical history, physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies, and other investigations to evaluate your overall fitness for surgery.
Medications
Your doctor will review all prescription medicines, over-the-counter medications, and supplements you are taking. Certain medicines, like blood thinners, may need to be stopped or adjusted before surgery.
Pre-surgery Consultations
You will meet with your surgeon, anaesthetist, and other specialists involved in your care. They will provide the details about the procedure, discuss potential risks and benefits, answer your questions, and obtain informed consent.
Fasting and Anaesthesia
Patients are usually advised not to eat or drink for several hours before surgery. The anaesthesia team will explain the type of anaesthesia planned and provide instructions to help ensure a safe procedure.
Procedure
The exact surgical process varies depending on the type of cancer and the planned operation.
Pre-Procedure
Before surgery, your identity, surgical site, and treatment plan are confirmed. An intravenous line is inserted, and you are prepared for anaesthesia. Preventive antibiotics or measures to reduce the risk of blood clots may also be given when appropriate.
During the Procedure
Cancer surgery is performed under appropriate anaesthesia. The surgeon removes the tumour along with surrounding healthy tissue where necessary to achieve clear surgical margins. Nearby lymph nodes may also be removed for staging or treatment. Depending on the condition, the operation may be performed using open, laparoscopic, or robotic-assisted techniques.
Post-Procedure
After surgery, you are monitored in the recovery area before being transferred to the ward. Pain management, wound care, early mobilisation, and monitoring for complications are important parts of post-operative care. The removed tissue is examined by a pathologist to guide any further treatment.
Risks of Cancer Surgery
Although cancer surgery is generally safe when performed by experienced surgical teams, every operation carries some degree of risk.
Common Risks
Common risks include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Pain or discomfort
- Reactions to anaesthesia
- Blood clots
- Delayed wound healing
Long-term Risks
Depending on the type of surgery performed, some patients may experience:
- Changes in organ function
- Scarring
- Lymphoedema after lymph node removal
- Reduced mobility in the operated area
- Changes in bowel, bladder, or sexual function
- Need for reconstructive procedures
Your surgical team will explain the risks relevant to your individual treatment.
Complications
Complications vary according to the type of cancer, the extent of surgery, and the patient's overall health.
Short-Term Complications
Possible short-term complications include:
- Wound infection
- Bleeding
- Fluid collection
- Chest infection
- Urinary tract infection
- Temporary bowel dysfunction
- Blood clots
Long-Term Complications
Some patients may develop:
- Persistent pain
- Scar-related discomfort
- Lymphoedema
- Reduced function of the affected organ
- Nutritional difficulties after major gastrointestinal surgery
- Recurrence of cancer requiring additional treatment
Regular follow-up helps detect and manage these complications promptly.
Why Choose Nanavati Max Hospital for Cancer Surgery?
Experienced Oncological Surgeons
The Nanavati Max Hospital's multidisciplinary cancer team includes experienced surgical oncologists with expertise in treating a wide range of cancers using evidence-based surgical techniques.
Advanced Surgical Technology
Modern operating theatres, advanced imaging, minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures, and robotic-assisted surgery enable precise treatment while supporting faster recovery for suitable patients.
Personalised Patient Care
Every treatment plan is tailored to the patient's diagnosis, overall health, and treatment goals. Patients receive coordinated care from surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, anaesthetists, nurses, rehabilitation specialists, and supportive care teams.
Comprehensive Cancer Treatment
Cancer surgery is integrated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, rehabilitation, nutritional guidance, and long-term follow-up, ensuring continuity of care throughout the patient's cancer journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What types of cancers require surgery?
Surgery is commonly used to treat breast cancer, colorectal, lung, stomach, liver, pancreatic, thyroid, kidney, prostate, ovarian, uterine, skin, head and neck cancer, and many other cancers when surgical removal is appropriate.
2. How long does cancer surgery take?
The duration depends on the type and complexity of the procedure. Some operations may take less than an hour, while major cancer surgeries can last several hours.
3. Will I need chemotherapy or radiation after surgery?
Some patients require additional treatment after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence. The decision depends on the type of cancer, pathology findings, stage, and individual treatment plan.
4. How can I prepare for cancer surgery?
Preparation typically includes medical evaluation, blood tests, imaging, medication review, following fasting instructions, stopping smoking where possible, and discussing the procedure with your healthcare team.
5. What is the recovery time after cancer surgery?
Recovery varies according to the operation performed, overall health, and whether minimally invasive or open surgery was used. Minor procedures may require only a short recovery, whereas major operations may take several weeks.
6. Is cancer surgery painful?
Some discomfort is expected after surgery, but pain is carefully managed using medicines and supportive care. Effective pain control helps patients recover more comfortably and resume normal activities gradually.
7. Do oncologists perform cancer surgery?
Cancer surgery is performed by surgical oncologists or surgeons with specialist expertise in treating specific cancers. Medical oncologists and radiation oncologists provide non-surgical cancer treatments and work closely with the surgical team.
8. What are the chances of cancer recurrence after surgery?
The risk of recurrence depends on the cancer type, stage, tumour characteristics, and whether all cancerous tissue has been removed. Regular follow-up and any recommended additional treatments help reduce the risk and allow early detection if cancer returns.
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