Decades ago, open surgery was the standard of care, when a surgeon made an incision in the body of the patient and then performed a series of procedures to remove benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) tumors. The process took too long and usually resulted in a high frequency of complications. However, minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopic and robotic surgery can now be used to conduct cancer surgery.

Minimally invasive surgery has become increasingly popular in the last two decades. These approaches involve introducing a camera through a keyhole (tiny) incision in order to reach any significant target organ or the cancer site.

These procedures are less uncomfortable and less likely to result in problems. 

The benefits are enormous when the incisions are small, explains Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a well-known surgical oncologist in India. 

In this article, we shall learn the similarities and differences between these two surgical methods.

There are several similarities between robotic surgery and laparoscopic surgery. The most significant similarities include the following:

• Both techniques use smaller incisions than a traditional open surgery
• Both procedures involve the use of tiny cameras to get a better view of the surgical area
• The surgical instruments used in both these procedures are much smaller

However, robotic surgery has made technological strides that make these operations simpler for doctors to carry out and for the patients to recuperate from.

The two methods of surgery differ significantly from one another. The key areas of distinction are the instruments used and how they operate.

Laparoscopic Surgery 

Laparoscopic surgery involves performing surgery by making keyhole, minimally invasive incisions in the abdominal (tummy) wall. The procedure is carried out using a laparoscope, a hand-held tool that aids the laparoscopic surgeon in navigating the body.

The camera used in Laparoscopic surgery is 2-dimensional.

It is employed to treat a number of ailments, including but not restricted to ovarian cysts, hernias, and numerous cancers.

Laparoscopic Surgery – Advantages

• lowers the potential for injury while performing the surgery
• the pain and discomfort during the healing period are less
• requires a shorter stay in the hospital
• the need for anesthetic drugs is reduced
• the risk of wound complications and infections is reduced
• blood loss is less, and recovery is quicker
• minimal discomfort and pain
• enables patients to resume routine activities soon
• the cosmetic results are better

Please get in touch with Dr. Sandeep Nayak if you want more information about Laparoscopic cancer surgery in India.

Robotic Surgery

Robotic surgery, also referred to as robot-assisted surgery, allows medical professionals to perform a multitude of intricate and challenging treatments with greater precision, flexibility, and command than is feasible with traditional methods.

This technique allows the surgeon to operate the surgical instruments from outside the body of the patient with the help of a console and a 3-dimensional camera. It enables surgeons to see clearly within the body, allowing them to do surgery without endangering a patient’s vital health tissues or organs. 

Robotic surgery is an option for many challenging surgical operations, including prostate cancer surgery, liver transplantation, and heart bypass surgery. Robotic surgery helps with efficiency, precision, and command throughout a procedure. For patients, robotic surgery offers some benefits similar to those of laparoscopic surgery.

However, there are some clear advantages that you should take into account while selecting your course of treatment.

Robotic Surgery – Advantages

• provides a greater range of motion
• the 3-dimensional camera allows a better view of the operation site
• causes minimal blood loss, and recovery is quicker
• there is precision in the movements as surgeon tremor is eliminated
• the instruments are intricate and can access areas that a surgeon’s hand cannot reach in traditional or laparoscopic surgery
• reduced need for anesthetics during and after surgery

Dr. Sandeep Nayak adds that Robotic surgery typically results in less discomfort, reduced complications, and a speedier recovery period for the patient since it allows the surgeon a precise and clear perspective of the surgery site and improved dexterity.

With over 23 years of overall experience, Dr. Sandeep Nayak is among the preferred cancer specialists for people seeking Robotic Cancer Surgery in Bangalore, India.

Which cancer surgery is best depends on several variables, including the health status of the patient, the surgeon’s preferences and surgical experience, the kind of cancer that needs treatment, time restraints, and available amenities and technology.

Laparoscopic surgery appeals to patients because it requires fewer incisions and causes less discomfort. On the other hand, robotic surgery additionally offers improved visualization and precision in the operating room with fewer difficulties.

Cancer specialist Dr. Sandeep Nayak adds that Robotic surgery is typically preferred when a surgeon must operate in a challenging, constrained area of the body. 

Furthermore, robotic surgery has a quicker recovery period and is a less invasive choice for patients who are uncomfortable with the thought of surgery. Although less invasive, laparoscopic surgery takes longer to complete.

If you are considering getting cancer treatment in Bangalore, please consult Dr. Sandeep Nayak to understand which treatment option is the most suitable for you.

Cancer is a disease that can be agonizing and traumatic for the patient and their loved ones. It can be physically and emotionally draining. The treatment techniques can also cause a lot of discomfort and uncertainty.

However, with progress in medical science, treatment options are becoming more advanced with minimal side effects or discomfort. Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgery are both minimally invasive techniques that enable precise surgeries with the quickest recovery time, but there are a few significant variations between them.

It is significant to highlight that both of these procedures are generally very successful. So, do not be concerned about the surgical choice you or your doctors decide on.

Please do not delay the process if you or a loved one requires cancer treatment; start your treatment with the accomplished surgical oncologist Dr. Sandeep Nayak. He is a pioneer in the field of minimally invasive surgeries and has saved the lives of countless people with his surgical expertise.

Q. Is robotic surgery the same as laparoscopic?

A. A two-dimensional camera is used to aid with manual laparoscopic surgery. Meanwhile, in robotic surgery, the surgeon must use a console and a three-dimensional camera to manipulate equipment from outside the patient’s body.

Q. what are the advantages of robotic surgery?

A. The ability to perform surgery through tiny incisions is one of its key benefits. Among the additional benefits of robotic surgery are: Greater accuracy: Compared to a human hand, the robotic arm’s actions are more precise. They also have a wider range of motion.

Being diagnosed with cancer really hits one hard. To fully grasp the situation is challenging for the patient and their family.

In such a situation, it becomes necessary to understand the severity of the condition and the best treatment options available before making a decision.

Surgery is an integral part of cancer treatment, which is constantly evolving, and the latest surgical approach that has revolutionized cancer treatment is robotic surgery. Robotic surgery aids surgeons in carrying out complex surgical procedures with unrivalled precision, increased flexibility, and better control than conventional surgery.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, an acclaimed surgical oncologist in India, is a pioneer in laparoscopic and robotic surgery in the country. He has successfully treated thousands of patients with robotic cancer surgery in Bangalore, India.

He has been at the forefront of providing exceptional treatment options to his patients by researching and adopting the latest medical techniques and technology.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak is the Founder of MACS Clinic, an exclusive centre for minimally invasive cancer surgery, and Director and HOD of Minimal Access Surgical Oncology at Fortis Cancer Institute, Bangalore.

Read on to learn about robotic surgery, its benefits, and the types of cancer that can be treated by it.

Robotic surgery has completely changed the way surgery is performed. The conventional surgical approach is associated with large incisions, slow recovery, and delayed return to routine activities. Even laparoscopic surgery, a safe and effective treatment option for some cancers, has drawbacks, including instruments with limited motion, 2-dimensional images, and relying on a trained assistant to hold the camera.

In comparison, robotic cancer surgery provides the surgeon with high-definition, magnified 3-dimensional vision. The surgeon can access difficult-to-reach malignancies and work at angles that are impossible with open or laparoscopic instruments because of the high degree of freedom provided by the Endo-wristed devices.

A higher level of precision is possible because of motion scaling, which allows the surgeon to reduce the amount of instrument movement compared to finger movement. Furthermore, robotic techniques allow the surgeon to perform the radical operation while preserving critical structures and nerves due to better visualization and access to hard-to-reach places, thus providing patients with excellent outcomes and better quality of life.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, one of the best oncologist in India, always discusses the advantages of minimal access surgery, including robotic surgery, with his patients, so that they can make an informed decision.

• Improved clinical outcome
• Lesser pain
• Reduced blood loss
• Lower risk of postoperative complications
• Shorter hospital stays
• Less scarring
• Quicker recovery
• Better quality of life

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, an experienced surgical oncologist, provides robotic cancer surgery in Bangalore, India, for the following cancers:

Head and neck cancer

Dr. Sandeep Nayak uses advanced robotic surgical approaches such as TORS to address challenging head and neck cancers. It is specially used to treat tongue, throat, and tonsil cancer.

Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS) is a minimally invasive robotic procedure that is done through mouth opening. No external incisions are necessary.

On the other hand, traditional open surgery necessitates extensive incisions across the throat and jaw, which frequently leave patients with noticeable scars, difficulties in breathing or swallowing, and a long recovery.

Colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer surgeries are primarily complex and intricate, so robotic and laparoscopic surgical modalities are mostly preferred. Dr. Sandeep Nayak is an expert in robotic intersphincteric resection (ISR) for low rectal cancers, which helps preserve the anus and avoid permanent stomas in 90% of patients.

Thyroid cancer

RABIT (Robotic-Assisted Breast Axillo Insufflate Thyroidectomy) is an alternative to open thyroid surgery. Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a leading surgical oncologist in India, developed this cutting-edge robot-assisted surgical technique for treating thyroid cancer. Till date, he has performed 500 plus surgeries using this method, which offers better clinical outcomes with fewer complications.

Gynecologic cancers

Robotic surgery is a well-established treatment option for several gynecological malignancies, including ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, fallopian tube cancer, and endometrial cancer.

Urologic cancer

Robotic surgery is a standard surgical technique for treating urologic tumors such as prostate, penile, bladder, and testicular cancer. One procedure that has benefitted the most with robotics is radical prostatectomies, which is 100% performed robotically by Dr. Sandeep Nayak.

Thoracic cancer

The surgeon uses minimally invasive, robotic surgery to treat mediastinal (middle chest) malignancies such as thymus, esophageal, and lung cancer, as it helps to treat hard-to-reach cancer while sparring the nerves and other organs.

If you are planning to undergo robotic cancer surgery, you should follow the necessary steps:

• Be sure to choose the right surgeon with extensive experience performing the type of procedure you are looking for.
• Ask in detail about the procedure and its side effects, as it will help you set realistic expectations.
• If you have any concerns regarding the robotic procedure, talk it out with your surgeon. He will be the right person to clear your doubts and explain why this procedure is the best option for you.

Considering how quickly and frequently the most recent advancements in cancer surgery evolve, it is important to ensure you have all the knowledge you need to make the best choice possible.

The news of stage 4 esophageal cancer in the family or friends can be quite heartbreaking. You are likely to have a lot of queries.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, one of the best oncologists in Bangalore, has kindly and empathetically explained some aspects of surviving stage 4 of esophageal cancer. He starts by giving us an overview of the disease and progresses gradually to what to expect.

Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the esophagus- a tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. It is often diagnosed at a later stage due to the lack of early symptoms. Common symptoms of esophageal cancer may include:

• difficulty swallowing,
• weight loss,
• and chest pain.

There are several types of esophageal cancer, including squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. 

Treatment options may include:

• Surgery
• Chemotherapy,
• Radiation therapy.

 The prognosis for esophageal cancer depends on the following:

• the stage of cancer,
• the location and size of the tumor,
• and the overall health of the patient, including the patient’s age.

In cancer staging, the number “4” refers to the fact that cancer has spread (metastasized) to other body parts. Stage 4 cancer is the most advanced cancer and is often considered incurable.

Cancer stage is determined by:

• the size of the primary tumor,
• the extent to which cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes,
• and whether cancer has metastasized to other parts of the body.

This information is gathered through various diagnostic tests, including biopsies, imaging, and blood tests.

Several factors can affect the progression and prognosis of stage 4 esophageal cancer, including:

• the location and size of the tumor,
• the presence of lymph node involvement,
• and the patient’s overall health and age.

One of the most critical factors affecting the prognosis of stage 4 esophageal cancer is the patient’s age. As cancer progresses to stage 4, it becomes more challenging to treat, and the survival rate decreases. In general, older patients tend to have poorer prognosis than younger patients, as they may have other health problems that make treatment more difficult.

Another critical factor that can affect the prognosis of stage 4 esophageal cancer is the location and size of the tumor. Tumors that are located near the upper part of the esophagus tend to be easier to treat than tumors located near the lower part. Similarly, larger tumors are more challenging to treat than smaller tumors.

Lymph node involvement, also known as nodal metastasis, is also a crucial prognostic factor in esophageal cancer and it plays a vital role in determining treatment strategy and survival.

Overall, the treatment options for stage 4 esophageal cancer are limited and typically include a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. The prognosis for patients with stage 4 esophageal cancer is generally poor, with a five-year survival rate of around 5-10%.

A survival rate is a measure of how many people with a certain type of cancer are still alive a certain amount of time (usually five years) after their diagnosis. The survival rate is often given as a percentage.

“When I mentioned a 5-10% survival rate for stage 4 esophageal cancer, it means that, based on statistical data, of 100 people with stage 4 esophageal cancer, only between 5 and 10 of them will be alive five years after their diagnosis, given that standard treatment options are used.” Says Dr. Sandeep Nayak.

It is important to note that the survival rate is just a general estimation based on statistical data from a group of people, it does not apply to individuals, and an individual’s outcome may be different from the average. Many other factors, such as the patient’s general health, lifestyle, age, genetics, stage of cancer, and availability of new therapies, can affect the outcome. 

When the news of esophageal cancer and that too in its late stage, is given to a patient, one of the primary thoughts that every patient has is their chances given their age. 

“It’s difficult to give an exact survival rate for specific age groups, as many factors can affect a person’s prognosis. In general, however, younger patients tend to have a better prognosis than older patients, as they are typically in better overall health and are better able to tolerate treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy.”-Dr. Sandeep Nayak.

The National Cancer Institute’s Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program does provide some data on survival rates by age group for esophageal cancer. Still, it’s important to note that these figures are based on data from a specific time period and may not represent current trends fully.

Esophageal cancer survival rate by age: Overall five-year survival rate for esophageal cancer is around 20%, but it varies by age group. For people younger than 55, the five-year survival rate is about 27%; for those 55 to 64, it’s about 17%; and for those 65 or older, it’s about 11%.

It’s worth noting that survival rate by age group can also be affected by different treatment options and the availability of specialized care and expertise in treating esophageal cancer in a particular area. It’s also important to note that the survival rate may not tell the whole story, the quality of life after treatment and survival is also paramount. It’s always best to consult with a doctor who can provide more specific information based on an individual’s diagnosis and treatment plan.

The survival rate data mentioned earlier is based on the survival of patients diagnosed with esophageal cancer.

Stage 4 esophageal cancer life expectancy without treatment: If stage 4 esophageal cancer is left untreated, it will continue to grow and spread, eventually leading to death. Life expectancy without treatment can be very low, depending on how advanced the cancer is, how aggressive it is, and how it affects the vital organs.

Stage 4 esophageal cancer life expectancy with treatment: Treatment for stage 4 esophageal cancer typically includes a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. While the prognosis for patients with stage 4 esophageal cancer is generally poor, with a five-year survival rate of around 5-10%, treatment can help to prolong life and improve the patient’s quality of life.

Optimal care for esophageal cancer is multidisciplinary and depends on the cancer stage, overall patient health, tumor location, and more. So, these survival rate data give a general view of people diagnosed with esophageal cancer regardless of the care they received.

Optimal care for esophageal cancer typically involves a team of specialists, including a surgical oncologist, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, and gastroenterologist, working together to develop a personalized treatment plan. These specialists have specialized knowledge and experience in treating esophageal cancer and can often offer treatments and therapies that may not be available at other treatment centers.

 It’s important to note that the survival rate can be different for patients who received optimal care.

If a patient has access to these specialists and the most advanced therapies and treatment options, it’s more likely that the patient will have better chances of survival and better quality of life.

The treatment and palliative care for stage 4 esophageal cancer will typically involve a combination of different approaches, and the specific plan will depend on the patient’s situation.

Surgery is usually not considered a primary treatment option for stage 4 esophageal cancer, as cancer has already spread to distant locations. Surgery is considered palliative rather than curative in stage 4 esophageal cancer; it aims to relieve symptoms caused by the tumor, such as obstruction of the esophagus or swallowing difficulty. These surgeries include the removal of the affected portion of the esophagus and its reconstruction and removal of the affected lymph nodes.

Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It can be used in combination with chemotherapy, prior or post-surgery, and as a palliative treatment to reduce symptoms caused by the tumor, like pain and bleeding.

Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with radiation therapy and can be given before or after surgery. It can also be used as a palliative treatment to slow the tumor’s growth and reduce symptoms such as pain and difficulty swallowing.

Palliative care is an approach that focuses on providing comfort and support to patients and their families rather than treating cancer itself. It includes the management of symptoms such as pain, difficulty swallowing, fatigue, and emotional support. For example, if cancer has blocked the esophagus, a tube called a stent can be placed to open the passage and help in swallowing, which is a form of palliative care.

It’s important to note that while these are the most common treatment options, the specific treatment plan will depend on the individual patient’s diagnosis, overall health, and preferences, as well as the availability of specialized care and expertise in treating esophageal cancer. It’s always best to consult with a specialist who can provide more detailed and specific information based on an individual’s specific diagnosis and treatment plan.

Stage 4 esophageal cancer spread to lungs life expectancy: “If esophageal cancer spreads to the lungs or if there are complications such as tumor obstruction that affect lung function. It can lead to respiratory distress and decreased oxygen levels. In such cases, supplemental oxygen therapy may be considered. An oxygen concentrator can help improve oxygenation. Also helpful in symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue.”

Sometimes if cancer has spread to the lungs, the prognosis is generally worse. The survival rate for esophageal cancer patients with lung metastasis tends to be lower than those without lung metastasis. However, the outcome for an individual patient can vary widely based on many factors, such as the patient’s overall health, the location and size of the tumor, and the availability of specialized care and expertise in treating esophageal cancer.

• Surgery: Surgery is usually not considered a primary treatment option for lung metastasis from esophageal cancer, as cancer has already spread to distant locations. However, surgery may be an option for patients with a limited number of small lung metastases that can be surgically removed.
• Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy may be used to shrink lung metastasis and relieve symptoms. It may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is often used to shrink lung metastasis and reduce symptoms. It can be given alone or in combination with radiation therapy.
• Palliative care: Palliative care is an essential aspect of treatment for patients with lung metastasis. It can include pain and symptom management, emotional support and counseling, and other forms of care that focus on improving the patient’s quality of life.

It’s worth mentioning that the survival rate for esophageal cancer patients with lung metastasis tends to be lower than those without lung metastasis. But again, these figures are based on general statistical data, and the outcome for an individual patient can be quite different. It’s always important to talk to a specialist about the best treatment options for a patient with lung metastasis from esophageal cancer, as well as the expected outcomes and potential side effects of these treatments.

Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS-HIPEC) is a type of supra-major surgery to treat certain cancers of the appendix, colon, mesothelioma, ovary, pseudomyxoma peritonei, and rectum. These cancers can progress within the abdominal cavity, resulting in peritoneal metastases, wherein deposits of tumors develop in the inner layer of your abdomen (peritoneum), as well as on other organs and tissues.

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a specialized treatment used to treat certain types of cancer that have spread to the abdomen (peritoneum). Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) is an integral part of the HIPEC procedure. CRS is the surgical removal of as much cancerous tissue as possible from the abdominal cavity. CRS is followed by the delivery of chemotherapy directly to the abdominal cavity through a heated perfusion solution.

Renowned surgical oncologist in India, Dr. Sandeep Nayak, explains, “The goal of CRS is to reduce the size and number of cancerous tumors in the abdominal cavity as much as possible. This helps to increase the effectiveness of the chemotherapy solution, as it can reach and target more cancer cells.”

Dr. Sandeep Nayak is among the preferred cancer surgeons for people seeking HIPEC treatment in Bangalore. 

Cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC procedures are typically performed by a team of highly experienced surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other medical professionals in an operating room. It usually takes several hours to complete and is typically performed as part of an extensive procedure to remove cancerous tissue.

Here is an overview of the steps involved in Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy treatment:

• Anesthesia: The patient is given general anesthesia to put them to sleep and prevent any pain during the surgery.
• Cytoreductive surgery: CRS is the process that involves the surgical removal of cancerous tissue. The surgeon will make an incision in the abdomen and remove as much cancerous tissue as possible. This may include the removal of organs or other tissue, depending on the location and extent of the cancer. 
• Insertion of a heated perfusion system: A heated perfusion system is inserted into the abdominal cavity through a small incision. This system circulates a heated chemotherapy solution throughout the abdominal cavity.
• Administration of chemotherapy: The chemotherapy solution is perfused through the abdominal cavity for a specific period, usually around 90 minutes. The heat helps to increase the effectiveness of the chemotherapy.
• Closure of the incision: Once the chemotherapy has been administered, the incision is closed, and the patient is taken to the recovery room to awaken from the anesthesia.

HIPEC is a complex and highly specialized procedure and is not available at all cancer centers.

‌Dr. Sandeep Nayak says, “HIPEC is typically reserved for patients with advanced-stage cancer that has spread to the peritoneum. It is usually used in combination with other cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.” 

Cancer specialist ‌Dr. Sandeep Nayak may employ HIPEC and Cytoreductive surgery to treat advanced-stage cancer that has spread to the peritoneum, a thin layer of tissue that lines the abdominal cavity and surrounds the abdominal organs. This type of cancer is known as peritoneal carcinomatosis.

1. Peritoneal carcinomatosis can occur in various types of cancer, such as:
2. Appendiceal cancer: Cancer that arises when the cells that make up your appendix divide and multiply uncontrollably.
3. Colorectal cancer: Cancer that develops in the cells between your colon (large intestine) and rectum (anus).
4. Gastric or stomach cancer: A relatively rare type of cancer that develops in the stomach lining.
5. Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneal), lungs (pleural), or heart (pericardial). It is caused due to exposure to asbestos, a fibrous mineral once widely used in building materials, insulation, and other products.
6. Ovarian cancer: Cancer that occurs in the ovaries. 
7. Psuedo-myxoma peritonei: Cancer that occurs in the cells lining the inside of your belly and produces jelly-like material.

According to oncology expert Dr. Sandeep Nayak, “Complex judgments must be made when treating peritoneal disease patients. We believe that in order to help patients get the best results, every one of these individuals should be screened at a specialized facility with a highly-skilled and focused team.”

• The median overall survival for patients with colorectal peritoneal metastases receiving chemotherapy alone ranges between 8 – 15 months, but for those receiving CRS-HIPEC, the median survival is between 22 – 47 months, with a 5-year survival rate of 27% to 54%.
• CRS-HIPEC has significantly increased 5-year survival in patients treated for appendix peritoneal metastases and mesothelioma from less than 10% – 50% to 90% and is now the norm for these types of tumors.
• Studies conducted on 1051 patients treated for ovarian cancer with CRS-HIPEC indicated a median survival of 73 months. 
• Additionally, a couple of phase 3 randomized clinical trials examining CRS-HIPEC in recurring and primary grade III ovarian cancer showed that HIPEC produced a 2-fold overall survival rate and overall survival benefit of 11 months, respectively.

An Oncologist in India, Dr. Sandeep Nayak says, “The ability to recover following CRS-HIPEC treatment relies on the severity of your cancer and the scope of the procedure. The length of surgery might range from 5-12 hours, with a subsequent 10- to 14-day hospital stay. Usually, recovery takes 2-3 months.”

You may experience the following side effects during your recovery period:

• Bloating
• Problems with bowel movements – constipation/diarrhea
• Trouble sleeping
• Weight loss
• Nausea
• Tiredness

An Oncologist in India, Dr. Sandeep Nayak says, “The ability to recover following CRS-HIPEC treatment relies on the severity of your cancer and the scope of the procedure. The length of surgery might range from 5-12 hours, with a subsequent 10- to 14-day hospital stay. Usually, recovery takes 2-3 months.”

You may experience the following side effects during your recovery period:

• Bloating
• Problems with bowel movements – constipation/diarrhea
• Trouble sleeping
• Weight loss
• Nausea
• Tiredness

What is removed in Cytoreductive surgery?

CRS involves the removal of visible malignant tumors from the abdominal cavity. The next step is HIPEC, where the cavity is drenched in hot chemotherapy heated to 42 °C to eliminate any tiny cancer cells that may still be present.

How is HIPEC different from traditional chemotherapy?

Traditional chemotherapy is administered intravenously to target cancer cells. Unfortunately, peritoneal carcinomatosis frequently has a low or restricted blood supply, making it more challenging for intravenous chemotherapy to destroy these tumors. 

Thanks to HIPEC, chemotherapy medications are able to interact directly with microscopic cells that remain in the peritoneal cavity.

In India, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, with one woman getting diagnosed every 4 minutes and one dying of it every 8 minutes. The statistics are scary.

The good news is breast cancer can be cured if diagnosed and treated early. The 5-year survival rate for treatment in an early stage is 99%. That’s the main reason Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a world-acclaimed surgical oncologist in Bangalore, stresses the need for breast cancer awareness among people.

He is the Director and HOD of Minimally Access Surgical Oncology at the prestigious Fortis Cancer Institute, Bangalore. He is considered a leading oncologist for breast cancer treatment in Bangalore, India, for his vast experience, astute diagnosis, and exceptional surgical skills.

He firmly believes that women must get screened regularly for early detection, which is the key to successfully treating cancer. Further, they must carry out self-examination at home every month. It’s high time women stop ignoring their health.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak offers advice on identifying breast cancer in its earliest stages.Continue reading to learn more about the early warning signs of breast cancer and how to protect your health by following the tips.

While doing a self-exam at home, you should look out for the following signs:

• Lumps
• Change in skin texture, like extremely dry, scaly, or sunburned
• Nipple discharge
• Swelling and redness around the breasts
• Dimpling of skin
• Inverting of nipples
• Crusting or rashes around the areola and nipples
• Lymph node changes

Now that you know the initial symptoms of breast cancer let’s move forward to understand how to detect breast cancer early on.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, one of the best cancer specialist in Bangalore, strongly advises women to perform monthly self-exams and check for any changes in the breast. Doing it regularly will make them more attentive to any potential warning signs.

Steps for breast self-examination:

• Stand before a mirror and look at your breasts. Pay close attention to any potential skin texture anomalies, such as dimpling, creases, or other irregularities.
• Then look for any changes in the texture of your skin or any discharge as you raise your arms above your head.
• Further, check for any evident lumps with a firm, smooth touch while resting on your back or in the shower. Don’t forget to pay attention to the area under your arms.

If you notice a change or lump in the breast which wasn’t present earlier, please get it examined by a doctor as soon as possible. It may just be a benign cyst or lump, but it is always better to be cautious.

Knowing your family’s medical history is crucial for determining your breast cancer risk. Family history includes first-degree relatives, your parents and siblings, and second-degree relatives, your aunts and cousins.

A woman’s risk significantly increases if her family has a history of the disease.According to some research, your risk doubles if your parents or siblings have breast cancer.

Remember to discuss your family history of breast cancer with your doctor, so they know the possibility of hereditary concerns. Accordingly, they may advise you about regular screening and a healthy lifestyle.

Women should visit their doctor for an annual health check-up, which usually includes a breast exam, routine pelvic exam, and pap test. 

During the examination,make it a point to discuss your health issues, family history, and healthcare options with your doctor. However, immediately consult your doctor without waiting for your annual check-up if you notice a lump or other breast cancer-related signs.

For early breast cancer detection, mammograms are essential. This non-invasive techniquecan identify cancer three years before you feel a lump. Your age and medical history will determine how often you should have a mammogram.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a prominent oncologist for breast cancer treatment in Bangalore, recommends that women above 40 should get a mammogram done every two years. 

However, if you are below 40 and have a family history of breast cancer, talk to your doctor about it. He will plan your screening schedule depending on your risk factor.

If your mammogram results show up some abnormalities, your doctor may suggest added tests, such as:

• Ultrasound
• MRI
• Biopsy 

Please do not panic about the abnormal mammogram result as it may be due to a benign tumor or cyst, which are quite common.

And if breast cancer is detected, then be assured that many treatment options are available. Women have a better chance of overcoming breast cancer with early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a leading oncologist in Bangalore, says that India is at the forefront of advanced cancer treatments. We have the latest medical technology and expertise that is on par with the best medical centres in the world. 

He has successfully treated thousands of breast cancer patients with advanced surgical modalities, including laparoscopic, robotic, and endoscopic surgeries. These minimally invasive surgeries offer unparallel surgical precision, less trauma, quicker recovery, minimum complication, and faster return to a normal lifestyle.

Ovarian cancer is the third most common cancer in India among women. With the cases increasing every year, it’s a matter of grave concern.

Ovarian cancer develops in the ovaries, peritoneum, and fallopian tubes. The ovaries, a part of the women’s reproductive system, lie on either side of the uterus. They produce eggs and hormones, such as progesterone and estrogen.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, an experienced surgical oncologist in India, explains that ovarian cancer is easier to treat when it is confined to the ovaries.

But sadly, it goes undiagnosed in the early stages, as there are no symptoms. Cancer has already metastasized to the abdomen and pelvis when the symptoms appear, which is challenging to treat.

Ovarian cancer can affect any woman, but some factors can potentially increase the risk of developing the disease. We cannot change some aspects as being older, having the genetic mutations BRCA1 or BRCA2, and having a family history of cancers.

Being an expert in ovarian cancer treatment in Bangalore, India, Dr. Sandeep Nayak often gets queries from his patients about how to prevent ovarian cancer.

He says it is not possible to prevent ovarian cancer at present, but fortunately, there are a few ways to help lower the risk. He believes that people will be attentive to the symptoms if they know the risks and visit the doctor as soon as possible.

Continue reading to learn about the symptoms, risk factors, and ways to lower the risk of ovarian cancer.

They include:

• Back or stomach pain
• Unusual discharge or bleeding from the vagina
• Bloating
• Discomfort near the pelvis
• Difficulty eating
• Weight loss
• Frequent need to urinate
• Changes in bowel habit

Other medical disorders might bring on these symptoms. Doctors can identify the disease using some tests, including blood tests and pelvic examinations.

Some of the risk factors that increase the chances of developing ovarian cancer are:

• Family history of breast or ovarian cancer
• Overweight
• Age above 50 years
• Endometriosis
• Inherited gene mutations
• Difficulty conceiving or giving birth
• Previously having colon, breast, or uterine cancer
• Hormone replacement therapy

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a leading oncologist for ovarian cancer treatment in Bangalore, states that if you have more than one risk factor, please talk to your doctor about it and the possible screening tests.

Giving birth and breastfeeding

In comparison to women who do not give birth, those who do have a lower risk of developing ovarian cancer, especially before the age of 30. Having more children further reduces the risk.

Also, breastfeeding mothers have a lower risk of having ovarian cancer, which decreases the longer, you nurse

According to research, ovarian cancer risk is up to 50% lower among women who have used oral contraceptives in the past. The risk of developing ovarian cancer decreases with continued use of the pill.

However, consult your doctor to see if oral contraceptives suit you because not everyone responds well to them. Further, they can cause other complications, such as blood clots in women who smoke.

The risk of ovarian cancer decreases by managing your weight. You will have to exercise regularly and have a healthy, balanced diet.

Certain foods that are high in vitamin A, such as leafy green vegetables, carrots,and sweet potatoes, as well as foods like eggs, beans, almonds, etc., that are rich in vitamin D, also lower your risk of having ovarian cancer.

Avoiding tobacco use and exposure can reduce your chance of ovarian cancer and many other cancer types.Abstaining from tobacco use, controlling your alcohol intake, eating healthily, and exercising minimizes your ovarian cancer risk.

As hormone replacement therapy is one of the risk factors for ovarian cancer, it would be better if you could ask your doctor about alternative treatments for HRT after menopause.

Lower risk of ovarian cancer is linked to having some gynecological surgeries, such as:

• Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus)
• Tubal ligation
• Removal of either fallopian tubes (salpingectomy), ovaries (oophorectomy), or both.

However, according to specialists, you should undergo these procedures for genuine medical needs rather than for their effect on ovarian cancer.

Suppose you are undergoing a hysterectomy for medical reasons, and your family has a history of ovarian or breast cancer. In that case, you might consider having a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, which involves removing both ovaries and fallopian tubes.

Further, according to studies, premenopausal women with BRCA gene mutations who have removed their ovaries have a lower risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer.

It decreases the risk of breast cancer by more than 50 percent and ovarian cancer by 85 to 95 percent.

Each of the above points has its pros and cons. Some are easy to follow, whereas some need surgical intervention. Due to this, certain preventive methods may not be suitable for everyone.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, one of the best oncologists in India, recommends that you should discuss your worries about developing ovarian cancer with your doctor. They can assess your level of risk and provide a preventive plan that is suitable for you.