Tumor Removal & Other Surgical Care for Cancer

Surgically removing a tumor provides the most effective cancer treatment in many cases. Often, we combine surgery with chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Cancer surgery also includes diagnostic procedures, such as biopsies to collect and test a tissue sample.

Our surgeons have experience treating a wide range of cancers. Several of our surgical experts also completed extra fellowship training in specific cancer types. They use their skills to treat breast cancer, gynecologic cancers, pancreatic cancer, prostate cancer and urologic cancers.

Along with an experienced surgeon, your cancer team is always available to support you. Ask your team if surgery should be part of your diagnosis or treatment plan.
 

Types of Cancer Surgery

We offer many cancer surgery options. Our goal is to use the least invasive procedure to achieve the best possible results. That way, you experience less pain, have a shorter recovery time and return to normal daily activities faster.

Minimally Invasive Surgery

With minimally invasive surgery, also called laparoscopic surgery, your surgeon uses small incisions that are an inch or less in size. Through the incisions, they insert a small device with a camera and thin surgical instruments to get to the tumor. The camera shows images of the tumor on a screen to guide doctors as they remove it.

Robotic-Assisted Surgery

Robotic-assisted surgery is another type of minimally invasive surgery. It allows surgeons to access tumors that are hard to reach. Our technology enables our doctors to view high-definition 3D images of your body. Your surgeon then directs small robotic instruments to perform complex and delicate procedures — often removing cancer from the uterus, prostate, lung, kidney or other organs.

At El Camino Health, we bring you unmatched experience and skill in robotic-assisted procedures. You can relax, knowing that your surgeon does this type of surgery regularly. They even provide robotic training for surgeons at other medical centers.

Open Surgery

Although we try to offer you a minimally invasive surgery option when possible, you may need an open surgery if your team thinks it will give you the best results. During open surgery, your surgeon makes a larger cut on your body to remove the tumor. They may also remove some healthy tissue and lymph nodes.