Gynecologic Oncology

Description of Services

Caring for the special needs of women, the goal of gynecologic oncology is to provide comprehensive care in a comfortable, patient-oriented setting. A thorough evaluation is provided for all gynecologic malignancies as well as for premalignant lesions of the cervix. High risk evaluations are provided for women who are at high risk for gynecologic cancers as a result of their family history.

Among the services provided:

Advanced surgical techniques, including radical surgery, robotic surgery, and minimally invasive surgery
Current chemotherapeutic techniques including intravenous therapy and intraperitoneal therapy
Access to innovative and state-of-the-art radiation therapy techniques with specialists in radiation therapy for gynecologic malignancies
Access to research programs
Access to phase I and phase II research trials
Screening for familial breast, ovarian, endometrial, and colon cancer syndromes
Weekly pathology reviews and tumor conferences
Weekly ovarian cancer support group
Advanced colposcopy
Social work and clinical nutrition specialists
On-site comprehensive laboratory and radiological facilities
One-of-a kind Psycho-Oncology program offering evaluation, therapy and referrals as needed with a full-time Ph.D. Psychologist

As gynecologic oncology consultants, we work closely with your primary physicians to provide you with the best care possible from diagnosis through survivorship

Gynecologic Oncology Information

Gynecologic oncology involves the treatment of various cancers of the pelvis or reproductive systems, including ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, endometrial cancer, vulvar cancer, and vaginal cancer. The following facts provide some insight into these forms of cancer:

Endometrial cancer, or cancer of the uterus, ranks first among gynecologic cancers. It involves the formation of cancer in the lining of the uterus.
Ovarian cancer ranks second among gynecologic cancers. Women in industrialized nations are more likely to contract ovarian cancer than are women in non-industrialized countries.
Cervical cancer remains a powerful health threat around the world. Nearly all women with cervical cancer have human papillomavirus (HPV). Routine Pap test screening has reduced deaths due to cervical cancer by 74% over the past 50 years.
Vulvar cancer is a rare form of gynecologic cancer, accounting for only about 4% of reproductive cancers in women.

Treatment options for the various types of gynecologic cancers vary. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery may be considered depending upon the type of cancer, its stage, and other factors.

Clinical Trials

As a Texas Oncology patient, you may have the opportunity to receive newly-developed treatments or experimental drugs through participation in research studies and clinical trials. These programs are designed to evaluate new cancer prevention and treatment options, as part of a deliberate and comprehensive research process that often takes years. They test the safety and effectiveness of new or modified treatments in cancer patients using new drugs, unique approaches to surgery and radiation therapy, and various combinations of treatments. Participation in these trials is dependent on numerous factors relating to your health and the trials currently being offered.