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Gynecologic Oncology
Gynecologic Oncology is a medical specialty that offers an integrated approach to the diagnosis and surgery of cancerous and precancerous conditions of the female reproductive system. These include cervical dysplasia and cancer (abnormal Paps smears), ovarian cancer, pelvic masses, postmenopausal bleeding and uterine cancer (uterine sarcoma and endometrial cancer), vaginal cancer and vulvar cancer and hereditary cancer syndromes.
At Valley Medical Center, our gynecologic oncology team will provide you with patient-centered cancer treatment. A gynecologic oncologist, doctor with specialized training in treating gynecologic cancers, will oversee your care from diagnosis to completion of treatment. Our gynecologic oncologists serve as both surgeons and medical oncologists (chemotherapy treatment).
In addition to a gynecologic oncologist, you will have other expert providers making up your treatment team depending on your personalized needs for surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation. This may include a radiation oncologist, oncology nurse navigator, research nurse, and genetic counselor.
Innovative treatment options
Your doctor will talk with you about a full range of effective, innovative treatment options including laparoscopic and robotic approaches, fertility-sparing surgery, and risk-reduction procedures for inherited cancer syndromes:
- Laparoscopic surgery: This is an effective minimally-invasive technique, done through a few small cuts in the abdomen using a tiny camera, called a laparoscope. This type of surgery has been shown to result in shorter hospital stays, less discomfort, and a shorter recovery period.
- Robotic Surgery: This approach has the same advantages as laparoscopy, and it allows surgeons to operate with increased precision and accuracy while protecting surrounding tissues and organs.
In addition to medical treatment, Valley Medical Center provides support services designed to help patients and families deal with the many challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis. Nurse navigators provide support from day one and, in partnership with your cancer care team, make sure there are no gaps or delays in treatment. Support services may include oncology social work, medical nutrition, physical therapy, speech therapy, spiritual care, and palliative care.
Cervical Cancer Screening Explained
Pap tests, HPV vaccine, Colposcopies and more
Cervical cancer screening is part of regular preventive care for women and people with a cervix. In this DocTalk video, Jennifer Burzawa, MD, a gynecologic oncology provider with Valley’s Oncology and Hematology Clinic, explains the screening, HPV vaccines, and what happens next if there’s an abnormal result.