What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer develops from epithelial cells. In the vast majority of cases, the disease is caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). After infection, the virus can persist in the body for a long time, gradually causing precancerous changes in the cells that eventually progress to a malignant process.
Symptoms and early signs of the disease
In the early stages, cervical cancer is usually asymptomatic. Nevertheless, there are signs that require a gynecologist's attention:
- bloody discharge between periods or after sexual contact;
- bleeding in postmenopause;
- unusual vaginal discharge — watery, blood-tinged, or with an unpleasant odor;
- pain in the pelvic area or during intercourse.
The symptoms listed do not necessarily indicate cancer, but a consultation with a doctor is worthwhile for each of them.
Helyos Medical Center also performs surgical treatment of vulvar cancer — another gynae-oncological disease.
Surgical treatment of cervical cancer
The choice of surgical method is determined by the stage of the disease, the size of the tumor, and the patient's reproductive plans. Modern oncological gynecology has several methods available that allow treatment to be tailored individually:
- Cone biopsy (cervical conization) — excision of a cone-shaped section of the cervix containing the pathological zone. Performed at very early stages (in situ, IA1), when fertility needs to be preserved.
- Radical hysterectomy — removal of the uterus with the cervix, parametrium, and upper third of the vagina. Performed for invasive cervical cancer, typically at stages IA2–IIA.
- Pelvic lymph node dissection — removal of regional pelvic lymph nodes. Performed when there is a risk of or suspected metastases.
- Reconstructive operations — restoration of anatomy and function after the primary surgical intervention.
Please note! Operations are performed predominantly laparoscopically — which shortens the recovery period and minimizes trauma to the surrounding tissue.
For women with BRCA mutations, who have an increased risk of several cancers, Helyos Medical Center offers modern breast surgery.
Advantages of treatment at Helyos Medical Center
Surgical treatment of cervical cancer requires precise preoperative diagnostics. At Helyos Medical Center, the patient goes through the entire pathway — from comprehensive examination to surgery and rehabilitation — in one place, without referrals to other institutions. The inpatient unit operates 24/7, and the treatment plan is drawn up strictly individually, taking into account the stage of the disease and the patient's reproductive plans.
Helyos Medical Center also offers surgical treatment of fallopian tube cancer and other gynae-oncological interventions. To book an appointment with a gynecologic oncologist, find out the price of the operation, or learn how much treatment costs in a specific case, call +380670000150 or use the online form on the website.
