Most Common Methods Of Cervical Cancer Treatment

Conization

An individual who is suspected to have cervical cancer may need conization to aid in their diagnosis and treatment. Conization is a procedure used in cases of cervical cancer where the malignancy has not metastasized beyond the cervix. This procedure can also be used in the diagnosis of cervical cancer, as the specimen removed is examined under a microscope to identify the presence of malignancy and its extent. Cone-shaped sections of the patient's cervical tissue that contain cancerous cells are removed during this procedure. Unlike a method called loop electrosurgical excision, the surgeon uses a scalpel to remove the cancerous tissue rather than an electric loop tool. Because of the way conization is performed, the patient requires some kind of sedation or anesthesia. This method of surgery does not leave any burning behind in the tissues of the cervix, which allows for better precision when evaluating healthy tissue margins around the patient's excision for leftover malignant cells.

Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy may be needed to treat cervical cancer if it has spread into other tissues inside or on the uterus. A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure where the patient's cervix and uterus are completely removed. This is a measure taken in individuals who have cervical cancer that has spread beyond the cervix and into or on the outside of their uterus. Patients who have advanced cervical cancer that has spread into their uterus, lymph nodes, and or vaginal tissues may require a procedure referred to as a radical hysterectomy. A radical hysterectomy is a surgery where the patient's cervix, uterus, upper vagina, tissue around the cervix, and pelvic lymph nodes are removed. Some women may elect to have a simple hysterectomy if it increases their general prognosis, and they know they are finished bearing children. Outcomes in individuals who have a simple hysterectomy with cervical cancer are often better, and chances of recurrence are lower than those who undergo tumor excision surgery that may leave cancerous cells behind.