An Introduction to Cervical Cancer Surgery
When patients need treatment for cancer in the cervix or treatment for the area close to the tumor, doctors may recommend
cervical cancer surgery. Most women with early cervical cancer will require surgery to remove the cervix and uterus (this is known as a total hysterectomy). However, for very early (Stage 0) cervical cancer, a hysterectomy may not be needed.
Options for Cervical Cancer Surgery
The following surgical procedures may be used for cervical cancer surgery.
Conization
Conization, also called a cone biopsy, is a procedure that is used to remove a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix and cervical canal. A pathologist will view the tissue under a microscope to look for cancer cells. Conization may be used to diagnose or treat a cervical condition.
Total Hysterectomy
A total hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that is used to remove the uterus, including the cervix. There are three different procedures that may be used to perform a total hysterectomy, which include:
- A vaginal hysterectomy, in which the uterus and cervix are taken out through the vagina
- A total abdominal hysterectomy, in which the uterus and cervix are taken out through a large incision (cut) in the abdomen
- A total laparoscopic hysterectomy, in which the uterus and cervix are taken out through a small incision in the abdomen using a laparoscope.
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