Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is a malignant tumor that, with timely diagnosis and correctly chosen surgical tactics, responds well to treatment. Surgery remains the primary treatment method for this condition. Learn about the symptoms and risk factors for ovarian cancer, therapeutic approaches, and the surgical options available at Helyos Medical Center in Dnipro.

What is ovarian cancer and why is it dangerous?

Ovarian cancer holds one of the leading positions among gynae-oncological diseases in women. Its distinctive feature is a long asymptomatic course: the tumor is often detected only at late stages, when the process has already spread beyond the ovary. That is precisely why regular gynecological examinations and attentive care for one's own health are of fundamental importance.

Main symptoms of ovarian cancer in the early stages

The symptoms of ovarian cancer in the early stages are nonspecific — they can easily be mistaken for signs of other, less serious conditions. Reasons to consult a gynecologist:

persistent bloating or a feeling of pressure in the abdomen;
pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen and pelvic area;
rapid feeling of fullness while eating, reduced appetite;
frequent urination without an obvious cause.

Please note! Similar symptoms can also accompany endometrial cancer. Helyos Medical Center performs surgical treatment of uterine body cancer according to modern oncology protocols.

Risk factors and causes of the disease

The exact cause of ovarian cancer has not been established, but a number of factors reliably increase the likelihood of its development. These include:

hereditary mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes;
a burdened family history;
Lynch syndrome and other hereditary cancer syndromes;
no prior pregnancies;
endometriosis;
age over 60 years.

The oncology department at Helyos Medical Center also offers modern methods of surgical treatment of fallopian tube cancer.

Surgical treatment of ovarian cancer

Surgical intervention is the primary method of treating ovarian cancer. Helyos Medical Center performs the following types of operations:

at an early stage with a localized process — removal of the ovary and tube;
when the tumor has spread to the uterus and omentum — total hysterectomy;
when regional lymph nodes are affected — hysterectomy with lymphadenectomy;
when distant metastases are present — comprehensive cytoreduction.

The doctors at Helyos Medical Center predominantly use a laparoscopic approach. The operation is performed through small punctures in the abdominal wall using microinstruments. Open laparotomy is used only in complex cases, when the process has spread to the rectum, bladder, or perineum. Helyos Medical Center also offers surgical treatment of vulvar cancer.

Advantages of treatment at Helyos Medical Center

Gynae-oncological operations at Helyos Medical Center are performed by qualified surgeons according to modern international oncology protocols. Preoperative examination (ultrasound, CT with AI support) and laboratory diagnostics are carried out at our own diagnostic center. The inpatient unit operates 24/7, and the treatment and rehabilitation plan is drawn up individually, taking into account the stage of the disease and the patient's condition.

To book a consultation with a gynecologic oncologist, find out the preliminary price of the operation, or clarify how much treatment costs in your specific case, call +380670000150 or use the online form on the website.

Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer

Several factors contribute to the development of ovarian tumors, which can be divided into genetic, hormonal, environmental, and lifestyle-related:

Genetic factors: Family history, genetic mutations (BRCA1 and BRCA2).
Hormonal factors: Late pregnancy, menopause, use of oral contraceptives, endocrine disorders, absence of pregnancy, etc.
Environmental factors: Working in the chemical industry, exposure to radiation.
Health factors: Gynecological conditions (cysts, endometriosis, fibroids), metabolic disorders.
Lifestyle factors: Obesity, smoking, alcohol abuse, unhealthy diet.

These factors can interact, increasing the overall risk of ovarian cancer. Regular medical check-ups are crucial for early detection and timely treatment.

Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer symptoms are often nonspecific and can resemble other gynecological conditions. It is essential to watch for:

Persistent lower abdominal pain unrelated to other conditions.
Bloating.
Menstrual cycle irregularities.
Urinary disturbances.
Digestive issues (nausea, unexplained constipation).
Chronic fatigue and apathy.
Persistent low-grade fever.
Night sweats.
Unexplained weight loss.
Abdominal swelling.
Discomfort during intercourse.

If you notice these symptoms, immediate consultation with a gynecologist at the Helyos Сenter is strongly recommended. Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes.

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Diagnosis and Treatment Methods

The department at the surgery and rehabilitation center "Helios", ovarian cancer diagnosis is conducted by oncogynecologists. Women who undergo regular medical check-ups have a higher chance of detecting the disease in its early stages. The standard diagnostic process includes:

Patient consultation.
Medical history documentation.
Gynecological examination using a speculum.
Transvaginal ultrasound.
Vaginal flora smear test.
HPV testing.

If ultrasound reveals abnormalities, additional tests may be required:

Blood and urine tests.
Tumor marker tests.
Hysteroscopy.
Biopsy.
CT scan with contrast.
MRI, and other imaging studies.
Ovarian Cancer Treatment

Treatment depends on the stage, tumor type, patient’s overall health, and individual factors. The main treatment methods include surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormonal therapy. The following surgical procedures are performed for ovarian cancer:

Removal of the affected ovary and fallopian tube.
Total hysterectomy (removal of the uterus, ovaries, and part of the omentum).
Total hysterectomy with removal of affected lymph nodes and pelvic organs.
Comprehensive surgery with removal of distant metastases.

For pelvic organ surgeries, specialists at Helyos Сenter frequently use minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques—operations are performed through small incisions using microinstruments. Only in severe cases (e.g., cancer spread to the rectum, bladder, or perineum) is open laparotomy required, which our specialists are also proficient in.

Ovarian Cancer Treatment at Heyos Сenter

The Helyos Medical Center in Dnipro is fully equipped with state-of-the-art technology for performing surgeries of any complexity. Our doctors apply an individualized, comprehensive approach, conducting thorough diagnostics and selecting the most effective treatment method.

At Helyos Сenter, highly qualified specialists of the highest category utilize modern techniques to achieve the best ovarian cancer treatment outcomes. Each patient room is equipped for maximum comfort before and after surgery.

For consultation or diagnosis, please contact Helyos Clinic in Dnipro.