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Gynecological Cancer Treatment in Thane
Gynecological (gynaecological) cancers are cancers of the female reproductive organs: the ovaries, cervix, uterus (womb), vagina and vulva. Dr. Saneya Pandrowala is a surgical oncologist at KIMS Hospital, Thane, who treats gynaecological and gastrointestinal cancers. Her training includes an MCh in Surgical Oncology at Tata Memorial Hospital, where complex pelvic and abdominal cancer surgery is a core part of the work.
Types of gynaecological cancer
- Ovarian cancer (including fallopian tube and primary peritoneal cancer)
- Cervical cancer
- Uterine (endometrial) cancer
- Vaginal and vulvar cancers, which are less common
Warning signs that need a check-up
- Bleeding after menopause, between periods or after intercourse
- Persistent bloating, feeling full quickly, or pelvic and abdominal pain
- Unusual or foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- New urinary frequency, constipation or unexplained weight loss
These symptoms have many non-cancerous causes, but if they last more than two to three weeks they should be examined rather than waited out.
How gynaecological cancers are diagnosed
Evaluation usually combines a pelvic examination, ultrasound, CT or MRI, and a biopsy that confirms the type of cancer. Blood tests such as CA-125 may be used in suspected ovarian cancer, although they cannot diagnose cancer on their own. For cervical cancer, Pap smear and HPV testing are used for screening, and colposcopy with biopsy is used to confirm abnormal findings.
Treatment options
Surgery is a central treatment for most gynaecological cancers. The choice depends on the cancer type, stage, your general health and whether you wish to preserve fertility.
- Staging and hysterectomy, with or without removal of the ovaries, tubes and lymph nodes.
- Cytoreductive (debulking) surgery for advanced ovarian cancer, aiming to remove all visible disease from the abdomen and pelvis.
- Minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopic or robotic) where it is oncologically appropriate. See laparoscopic cancer surgery and robotic cancer surgery.
- HIPEC in carefully selected patients with disease spread inside the abdomen. Read about HIPEC surgery and peritoneal cancer.
- Chemotherapy, radiotherapy and targeted therapy given before or after surgery, planned together with medical and radiation oncology colleagues.
Why a surgical oncologist matters
Advanced gynaecological cancers often involve the bowel, liver surface, diaphragm or peritoneum. A surgeon trained in both gynaecological and gastrointestinal (GI) and hepatopancreaticobiliary (HPB) cancer surgery can plan complete removal of disease in one operation, which is important for outcomes in advanced ovarian cancer.
What to bring to your first visit
- All scans (CT, MRI, ultrasound) and the reports
- Biopsy or pathology slides and report
- Blood test reports, including tumour markers
- A list of medicines, allergies and past surgeries
Frequently asked questions
Can fertility be preserved after a gynaecological cancer diagnosis?
In some early-stage cancers, fertility-sparing surgery may be possible. This depends on the type, grade and stage, and needs to be discussed before any treatment begins.
Is surgery always needed?
Not always. Some cancers, such as locally advanced cervical cancer, are treated mainly with chemoradiation. Your treatment plan is decided after all reports are reviewed.
Should I get a second opinion?
Yes, a second opinion on the surgical plan is reasonable, especially for advanced or recurrent disease. Bring your existing reports.
Book a consultation for gynaecological cancer
Dr. Saneya Pandrowala, Consultant Surgical Oncologist at KIMS Hospital, Hiranandani Estate, Thane West, sees patients Monday to Friday, 2 pm to 4 pm, and on Saturdays by appointment. Bring your scan reports, biopsy report and any earlier treatment records to your first visit.
This page is for general patient education and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Treatment is always planned individually after examination, imaging and pathology review.