Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, oncologists at Aster CMI Hospital provide complete care to patients post-treatment, including monitoring their progress and recovery journey. They adjust medications, consider the treatment reactions on their body, and work with other medical specialists like nutritionists, rehabilitation therapists and naturopathic providers to manage surgery reactions.

Patients should know about the success ratio of the surgeries required, their complications, risks, and potential associated reactions. Further, they should ask about the root cause of the underlying health conditions, the cancer stage, its location, and lifestyle changes required pre and post-treatment.

Patients must see a surgical oncologist in Bangalore when they are diagnosed with a tumour or when referred by primary care doctors for a biopsy. Additionally, patients can see surgical oncologists for preventive surgery to have precancerous tissue removed. Further, during the treatment of cancerous stages, frequent appointments are required for effective treatment.

Surgical oncologists perform surgical treatments to treat cancer and remove cancerous growths. They also analyse the need for surgery by identifying the type of tumour, its location, and the stage when it’s diagnosed. Specialists also perform biopsies to diagnose cancer, and in collaboration with pathologists, they may also conduct staging surgery to determine the tumour’s size and impacted area.

To prepare for your first visit to a surgical oncologist, gather all relevant medical records, including diagnostic imaging and pathology reports. Write down your medical history and current medications. Prepare a list of questions and concerns about your diagnosis, treatment options, and surgical procedures. Bring a notepad or device to take notes during the consultation. Consider bringing a family member or friend for support and to help remember information. Ensure you have your insurance details and a referral letter if required. Being well-prepared will help you make the most of your consultation and facilitate a comprehensive evaluation by the surgical oncologist.

Surgical oncologists utilize several advancements and technologies to improve patient outcomes. These include minimally invasive surgical techniques such as laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgeries, which offer precision and quicker recovery times. Advanced imaging technologies, such as PET scans and MRI-guided surgery, enable accurate tumor localization and staging. They also employ intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) and sentinel lymph node mapping for targeted treatment. Innovations in surgical tools and equipment, like laser surgery and ultrasonic scalpels, enhance precision and reduce damage to surrounding tissues. Ongoing research in genomics and personalized medicine also guides surgical oncologists in tailoring treatments to individual patients' genetic profiles.

A surgical oncologist plays a pivotal role in a patient's cancer treatment by providing surgical expertise for diagnosing, staging, and removing tumors. They collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including medical and radiation oncologists, to create a personalized treatment plan. Their role includes performing surgeries to remove cancerous tissues, conducting biopsies, and performing reconstructive surgeries when necessary. They also offer guidance on post-operative care, manage potential complications, and ensure seamless integration of surgery with other treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy, aiming to achieve the best possible outcomes for the patient.  

Surgical oncologists attend to a variety of medical conditions primarily focused on cancer. These include solid tumors such as breast cancer, colorectal cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, and melanoma. They also handle cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, endocrine system, and soft tissues, such as sarcomas. In addition to treating existing cancers, they may perform preventive surgeries for those with a high genetic risk of cancer. Surgical oncologists also address conditions requiring complex surgical interventions, including metastases removal and palliative surgeries to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.

For your first visit with a surgical oncologist, bring the following documents: Medical history records Diagnostic imaging (X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans) Biopsy or pathology reports List of current medications and supplements Insurance information Referral letter from your primary care physician or oncologist Any previous surgery records or treatment plans related to your cancer   Having these documents will help the surgical oncologist understand your condition comprehensively and develop an effective treatment plan.  

Yes, a surgical oncologist plays a crucial role in managing recovery after surgery. They provide detailed post-operative care instructions, monitor healing, and address any complications that arise. Follow-up appointments with the surgical oncologist ensure that recovery is progressing as expected and allow for timely intervention if issues occur. They also coordinate with other healthcare providers, such as physical therapists and medical oncologists, to support a comprehensive recovery plan, including pain management, wound care, and rehabilitation.