Personalized care for gynecologic cancers
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Advanced surgical treatments for cervical and uterine cancer
Surgeons are highly trained in innovative surgical approaches using robotic surgery, laparoscopic surgery, and other image-guided minimally invasive techniques to remove a tumor and preserve healthy tissue.
Cervical cancer – For cervical cancer treatment, gynecologic surgeons with Ascension Borgess use less invasive robotic surgery with high-definition 3D visualization to remove abnormal growths. If hysterectomy is recommended as part of your care plan, you and your doctor will discuss all options and what they mean for you. Our gynecologists also provide treatment options for early-stage cervical cancer and for women of childbearing years. Radical cervix removal (also called radical trachelectomy) may help preserve fertility.
Uterine cancer – This cancer, also called endometrial cancer, is the most common of the gynecologic cancers. Whenever possible, gynecologic surgeons with Ascension Michigan perform minimally invasive, robotic-assisted surgery with the goal of removing tumors and sparing healthy tissue. If your surgery may impact your ability to have children, such as if a hysterectomy is recommended as part of your care, you and your doctor will discuss all of your options and what they mean for you.
Other gynecologic cancers – Multidisciplinary cancer specialists with Ascension Michigan deliver combination therapies – surgery combined with the latest chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatment options for early and late-stage disease, including BRCA-mutated (gBRCAm or sBRCAm) epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal cancer.
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Genetic and molecular tests
Advanced genetic and molecular tests can identify abnormal cell growth and can help your doctor analyze how your type of cancer may respond to different treatments or travel (metastasize) to distant organs.
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Diagnostic imaging
Ultrasound, MRI and CT are common radiology tests for gynecologic cancers. Your doctor connects you with an imaging center close to home.
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Image-guided technology for biopsy and ablation
Highly trained gynecologic oncologists use advanced imaging techniques for tissue biopsy. Image-guided ablation is used to help treat recurrent cancer that is detected in the tissue lining a reproductive organ.
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Medical oncology
Medical oncologists work with your gynecologic oncologist to deliver advanced care, such as low-dose sensitizing chemotherapy to enhance the effects of radiation therapy. Working together, your gynecologic oncologist and medical oncologist provide hormone therapy and targeted immunotherapy to help prevent recurrence and to help stop cancer spread.
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Radiation oncology
Our cancer care team can connect you with advanced radiation therapies (brachytherapy, 3D conformal, and IMRT). Radiation oncologists apply targeted radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells while protecting surrounding healthy tissue.
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Oncology rehabilitation
Physical therapists trained in lymphedema therapy and pelvic therapy provide rehabilitation therapies to help relieve pelvic pain and lymphedema symptoms after surgery.
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Support programs and resources
Your cancer care team provides support – from nutrition education and counseling to cancer support groups, exercise programs and spiritual care. We provide supportive care and activities for the whole you.
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What tests are used to diagnose gynecologic cancer?
Your care team focuses on identifying if the tumor is non-invasive or invasive, and to understand where the tumor began and whether or not it has spread. Diagnostic blood testing, imaging, biopsy or diagnostic surgery help your doctor diagnose your condition, and stage even the most rare cancers. And we use advanced molecular studies to recognize cancer subtypes and genetic mutations, to create a care plan for your type of cancer.
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Does a Pap smear help detect cervical cancer early?
Getting regular pelvic exams may help find cervical cancer and other gynecologic cancers early, when they’re most treatable. Talk with your doctor about health screenings that are right for you, based on your age, family history and risk factors.
For cervical cancer screening, women in their 20s should begin getting a regular Pap test, also called a Pap smear. In your 30s and as you age, women should continue getting the Pap test and add the HPV test, as recommended by your doctor. When you choose a women’s health specialist with Ascension Borgess for your care, you are connected to all the care you need – from routine screenings to advanced care.
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Who is on my cancer care team?
Hearing the word cancer comes with a lot of thoughts and emotions, and we’re ready to support you. You'll meet with your doctor to discuss your diagnosis and your care options. Your care team may include:
- Gynecologist
- Gynecology oncologist
- Medical oncologist
- Oncology-certified nurses, dietitians and social workers
- Oncology-certified pharmacist
- Palliative care specialist
- Radiation oncologist
- Radiologist
- Rehabilitation physical therapist
- Urogynecologist
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Who should I call when I have questions?
Your doctor and care team are ready to listen and answer all your questions. Call your nurse navigator. She can connect you with your doctor.
If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911 or go to the near ER.
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What cancer support services are available?
Your doctor and care team are ready to listen and answer all your questions. Working together, we provide services that help support your treatment plan, including managing pain and other symptoms, medications, appetite changes, sleeplessness, fatigue and mood changes. Your entire care team stays connected throughout your care to discuss your treatment and progress. And should you need it, we can connect you with resources and programs that may be able to help you and your family with options for financial assistance.
