Surgical Oncologists: Cancer Care and Chemotherapy

Understanding Surgical Oncology

Surgical oncology is a specialized field of medicine focusing on the surgical management of cancer. Surgical oncologist in India are trained to perform biopsies, remove tumours, and conduct complex cancer surgeries. However, their role extends beyond the operating room, encompassing the entire spectrum of cancer care, including chemotherapy.

The Interplay Between Surgery and Chemotherapy

In many cancer cases, surgery and chemotherapy work hand in hand. Surgical oncologists often collaborate closely with medical oncologists to determine the optimal treatment strategy. Dr. Bushra Khan is a surgical oncologist in India. This collaboration can take several forms:

1. Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: In some cases, chemotherapy is administered before surgery to shrink tumours, making them easier to remove. Surgical oncologists play a key role in assessing the effectiveness of this approach and determining the appropriate timing for surgery.
2. Adjuvant Chemotherapy: After the surgical removal of a tumour, chemotherapy may be recommended to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. Surgical oncologists decide the necessity and timing of adjuvant chemotherapy based on their surgical findings and pathology reports.
3. Intraoperative Chemotherapy: In certain cases, surgical oncologists may administer chemotherapy drugs directly to the tumour site during surgery, a hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) technique.

The Surgical Oncologist's Role in Chemotherapy Management

While surgical oncologists may not directly prescribe or administer most chemotherapy treatments, their involvement is critical in several ways:

1. Treatment Planning: Surgical oncologists participate in tumour boards and multidisciplinary team meetings where treatment plans, including chemotherapy regimens, are discussed and decided.
2. Assessment of Chemotherapy Effects: They evaluate how chemotherapy has affected the tumour before surgery and adjust surgical plans accordingly.
3. Managing Surgical Complications: Chemotherapy can affect wound healing and increase the risk of infections. Surgical oncologists manage these potential complications.
4. Placement of Chemotherapy Ports: They often perform the surgical placement of chemotherapy ports or catheters used for drug administration.
5. Monitoring and Follow-up: Surgical oncologists play a crucial role in post-treatment surveillance, monitoring for recurrence or new cancers that might require further chemotherapy.

Specialized Training and Expertise

Surgical oncologists undergo extensive training beyond general surgery, including:

1. Fellowship in Complex Surgical Oncology: This provides in-depth knowledge of various cancer types and treatment modalities, including chemotherapy.
2. Continuous Education: They stay updated on the latest advancements in chemotherapy drugs and protocols.
3. Research Involvement: Many surgical oncologists participate in clinical trials, contributing to the development of new chemotherapy approaches.

The Importance of Collaboration

The involvement of surgical oncologists in chemotherapy underscores the importance of a team-based approach to cancer care. Close collaboration between surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists ensures comprehensive, personalized treatment plans for each patient.

Conclusion

While surgical oncologists specialize in surgical interventions, their role in cancer care extends to all aspects of treatment, including chemotherapy. Their expertise in assessing tumour response, managing complications, and participating in treatment planning makes them integral to the chemotherapy process. As cancer care continues to evolve, the collaborative efforts of surgical oncologists and other specialists remain crucial in providing optimal outcomes for patients undergoing chemotherapy and other cancer treatments.