How is ovarian cancer treated?

Treatment options for ovarian cancer are usually based on the patient's specific condition, the stage of the cancer, and the patient's overall health. The goal of treatment is to remove as many cancer cells from the body as possible and to prevent the cancer from coming back. Common treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, and radiation therapy. Each treatment method has its specific indications and implementation methods, and doctors will choose the appropriate treatment plan based on the patient's specific conditions.

First, surgery is one of the main ways to treat ovarian cancer, which usually involves removing the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other affected organs. Surgeons can use laparoscopy, a minimally invasive procedure that often reduces recovery time and postoperative pain, or laparotomy, which requires an opening in the abdomen. The goal of surgery is to remove the cancerous tumor and surrounding lymphoid tissue as completely as possible, thereby reducing the risk of the cancer returning.

Secondly, chemotherapy is another common treatment modality. Chemotherapy drugs are given into the body through intravenous infusion or oral administration to attack rapidly proliferating cancer cells. Doctors may give patients adjuvant chemotherapy before surgery to reduce the size of the tumor and make the surgery smoother; or they may give patients adjuvant chemotherapy after surgery to remove any remaining cancer cells.

In addition, targeted therapy has gradually gained recognition in the treatment of ovarian cancer in recent years. This approach uses drugs to identify and attack cancer cells, changing the way they grow and divide. For example, some targeted drugs can target specific genetic mutations and help inhibit the development of cancer cells. Targeted therapy may have fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy because it has relatively little impact on normal cells.

Hormone therapy is also a possible treatment option, especially for those types of ovarian cancer that rely on hormones to grow. This treatment slows or stops the growth of cancer cells by blocking the effects of hormones in the body. Hormone therapy is often combined with other treatments to enhance its effectiveness.

Radiation therapy is relatively uncommon in the treatment of ovarian cancer and is usually not used as the primary treatment. However, in some special cases, doctors may consider using radiation therapy to control localized lesions or relieve symptoms.

After completing treatment for ovarian cancer, patients need regular follow-up examinations. These tests help monitor whether the cancer has returned. Patients should make appointments on time and maintain communication with their attending doctor. The doctor may ask about some related symptoms and conduct necessary physical examinations. If necessary, imaging tests, such as CT scans, may be arranged to evaluate health conditions.

In short, the treatment of ovarian cancer is a complex process that requires comprehensive consideration of various factors. Doctors can create a personalized treatment plan for patients through surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy and, in certain cases, radiation therapy. While receiving treatment, patients should actively participate in follow-up to ensure timely detection and treatment.

(Click to view an introduction to drugs for the treatment of ovarian cancer)

References:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4447-ovarian-cancer