Surgery

Surgery may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the stage of the cancer as well as to treat or to control the cancer.

Surgical treatment for cancer usually aims to remove all or as much as possible of the cancer. It may involve a stay in hospital, although some cancer surgery procedures can be done in a day.

It is best for surgery to be carried out by a surgeon who specialises in treating your particular cancer. You may be referred to a different hospital for this appointment and treatment. This is because the cancer experts tend to be based in Cancer Centres. You should also be introduced to, or given contact details for a clinical nurse specialist.

The specialist nurses are experienced cancer nurses and can discuss with you your operation, and the effects and recovery time. They will be able answer questions you may have and are a useful contact if you need further information and support.