Gynecological Oncology

Laparoscopic surgery for cervical cancer

The surgical removal of the lymph nodes in combination with the vaginal removal of the uterus in cervical cancer is associated in gynecology with a risk of major blood loss, which leads to a high blood transfusion rate. However, if this procedure is performed using laparoscopy, the risk is significantly lower. This is well documented scientifically. The laparoscopic approach leads to a faster recovery of the patient and requires a shorter hospital stay compared to other treatment methods for removal of the uterus (hysterectomy).

The "Possover Method"

The "Possover Method"

Laparoscopic nerve-sparing oncological surgery

Classic surgery for cervical cancer often leads to bladder and bowel complications and other problems caused by nerve damage. Surgery assisted by laparoscopy reduces these risks. The outstanding performance of modern laparoscopic cameras makes it possible to identify and function test the pelvic nerves in order to ensure that their function is maintained postoperatively. With the help of these minuscule cameras, the nerves and all important structures become visible through multiple visual enhancement.   

This development has paved the way for a new, much gentler treatment method: the parasympathetic nerve-saving laparoscopic radical vaginal hysterectomy type 3 - or more simply, the " Possover Method ". Prof. Possover is one of the few doctors qualified for this method. He has performed over 3000 laparoscopic procedures and more than 900 nerve-sparing laparoscopic surgeries to treat cervical cancer.

The operation lasts about two to three hours with a hospital stay of two to five days, depending on the management of pain and the general condition of the patient.

 

Early stage cervical cancer

Early stage cervical cancer

Preservation of fertility in cervical cancer

If cervical cancer is treated at an early stage of the disease the so-called radical vaginal trachelectomy can preserve the ability to give birth. In this procedure, the cervix and the surrounding tissue are removed vaginally, while the lymph nodes are removed laparoscopically. Since the uterus remains intact, a later pregnancy is possible. However, in women who give birth after a trachelectomy, the birth must be performed by caesarean section.

This operation also takes about two to three hours with a hospital stay of two to five days, depending on the management of pain and the general condition of the patient.

 

Surgery for uterine cancer

Surgery for uterine cancer

Surgery for uterine cancer using laparoscopy

Laparoscopic surgery for uterine cancer involves the removal of the uterus (hysterectomy) and ovaries as well as the pelvic and abdominal lymph nodes using a minimally invasive surgical technique. If the cervix is involved, surgery is performed according to the "Possover Method".

This procedure and the "Possover Method" last about two to three hours with a hospital stay of two to five days, depending on pain management and the general condition of the patient.

 

Advanced gynecological cancer

Advanced gynecological cancer

Management of advanced gynecological cancer

Patients with advanced cervical carcinoma - i.e. a tumour larger than 4 cm - and lymph node involvement are treated with a combination of radio- and chemotherapy.

For this type of disease, surgical removal of lymph nodes using laparoscopy is recommended as the basis for optimal treatment planning. Various factors, such as a possible involvement of the pelvic lymph nodes or the spread of the tumour (metastases) to the surrounding tissue and/or blood vessels, have a decisive effect on the survival of the cancer patient. These factors can be very reliably clarified by laparoscopy. After receiving the final histology results, the gynaecologist can decide together with the patient on the further course of treatment. Since laparoscopic surgery is not a major open procedure, radio- and/or chemotherapy can be started much earlier than after open surgery.

Furthermore, laparoscopy reduces the risk of postoperative adhesions (fibrous ligaments that adhere to tissues and organs) and wound healing disorders. In addition, the patient can be actively involved in the decision-making process. A hospital stay of one night is normally sufficient for laparoscopic staging surgery.



 

Prof. Marc Possover MD

To help people in difficult situations to improve their quality of life has become his life's passion. Continuous research, decades of clinical experience and the focused determination to find a solution for previously unsolved medical problems, have enabled Prof. Possover to help often quite discouraged patients find release from their seemingly insurmountable problems.

Possover International Medical Center

Our center of excellence for Neuropelveology in Zürich is equipped with state of the art technical equipment, offering world-class treatment at the highest level. Enjoy individual attention in the most private and comfortable of settings.

Our team will take care of you

Here at our center, you will be treated not only as our valued patient but as our guest. Everyone in Prof. Possover's team is committed to making you feel completely at ease and in very safe hands. Our internationally experienced team members have an intuitive feel for the particular needs of every individual. We will accompany you every step of the way, from the initial contact right through to the conclusion of your treatment - with detailed personal attention, sincerity, courtesy and careful understanding.

Back to a better quality of life

We will dedicate our expertise and know-how to help you find the solution that is right for you.

Audrey Schroller

Practice Assistant

„As a cheerful, open and communicative person, I really appreciate coming into contact with people from all over the world. The well-being of others is very important to me.

Involvement of your own physician in your treatment

If it is your preference, your attending doctor is welcome to accompany you to Zürich. You will then have a person at your side who is familiar with your medical concerns. At the same time, your doctor will have the opportunity to be present during the planned operation and gain unique insights into the applied practice of Neuropelveology.

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