Ovarian Cancer Debulking Surgery is a crucial step in the treatment of advanced ovarian cancer. It aims to remove as much of the tumor as possible from the abdominal cavity. According to Dr. Maitreyee Parulekar, a renowned gynecologic oncologist in Mumbai, this surgery plays a decisive role in improving survival rates and overall treatment outcomes for ovarian cancer patients.
The main goal of debulking surgery is to reduce the tumor burden so that subsequent chemotherapy becomes more effective. When cancerous tissues are minimized through surgical intervention, chemotherapy drugs can target the remaining microscopic cancer cells more efficiently. This significantly increases the chances of remission and long-term control of the disease.
Dr. Parulekar emphasizes that ovarian cancer is often detected at an advanced stage, where the tumor has spread to nearby organs such as the bladder, intestines, or peritoneum. Hence, surgical expertise and precision are essential to ensure maximum tumor removal while preserving the patient’s overall health and organ function.
Ovarian Cancer Debulking Surgery isn’t just about tumor removal; it’s about enhancing survival outcomes. Numerous studies have proven that patients with minimal residual disease after debulking surgery live significantly longer than those with a high residual tumor load. As Dr. Maitreyee Parulekar explains, “Optimal debulking,” where less than 1 cm of tumor remains, leads to better chemotherapy responses and improved survival rates.
There are two main approaches to debulking surgery:
Dr. Parulekar and her surgical team perform a thorough preoperative evaluation using CT scans, MRIs, and tumor markers (like CA-125) to determine the best surgical approach for each patient.
She stresses that each surgery is unique — the extent and complexity depend on how far the cancer has spread. In some cases, parts of other organs such as the spleen or intestine may also need to be removed to achieve optimal results.
The Ovarian Cancer Debulking Surgery procedure is meticulous and requires exceptional surgical precision. Under general anesthesia, Dr. Maitreyee Parulekar performs an exploratory laparotomy — a detailed inspection of the abdomen to assess tumor spread.
Dr. Parulekar uses advanced surgical tools and techniques to minimize bleeding and preserve healthy tissues. The aim is always to achieve “no visible disease” post-surgery. After the operation, patients are closely monitored in a recovery unit before beginning adjuvant chemotherapy.
Recovery can take several weeks, but most patients start feeling better within 4 to 6 weeks. Dr. Parulekar’s compassionate approach ensures patients receive not only medical but also emotional support throughout the treatment journey.
The benefits of Ovarian Cancer Debulking Surgery are profound, especially when performed by a skilled surgeon like Dr. Maitreyee Parulekar. The most significant advantages include: