Commando Surgery

Commando surgery, also known as radical surgery, is a complex surgical procedure performed to remove cancerous tumors in the pelvic region. It involves the removal of the primary tumor along with adjacent structures, such as nearby lymph nodes and organs, to achieve complete tumor clearance. Commando surgery is commonly used to treat advanced-stage cancers that have spread to the pelvic area.

Who Needs Commando Surgery

Commando surgery is typically recommended for individuals diagnosed with advanced-stage cancers in the pelvic region, including:

• Cervical cancer
• Rectal cancer
• Bladder cancer
• Vaginal cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Sarcomas or other malignancies in the pelvic area

When to See a Specialist:

If you have been diagnosed with a pelvic cancer or if you suspect the presence of a pelvic tumor, it is crucial to consult a specialist, such as an oncologic surgeon or a gynecologic oncologist. They will evaluate your condition, perform necessary diagnostic tests, and determine if commando surgery is appropriate for your case.

Procedure

• Anesthesia: You will receive general anesthesia to ensure you are asleep and pain-free during the procedure.
• Incision: The surgeon makes an incision in the lower abdomen to access the pelvic area.
• Tumor exposure: The surgeon carefully exposes the tumor and surrounding structures.
• Tumor removal: The primary tumor, along with nearby lymph nodes and affected organs, is meticulously excised to achieve complete tumor clearance.
• Reconstruction: Depending on the extent of tissue removal, reconstruction may be necessary to restore normal anatomy and function. This can involve techniques such as reconstructing the urinary tract or creating a colostomy or ileostomy.
• Closure: The surgeon closes the incision with sutures or staples.
• Drainage and monitoring: Drainage tubes may be placed to remove any excess fluid or blood, and you will be closely monitored in the recovery area.

Road to Recovery

Recovery after commando surgery can be challenging and may require a hospital stay of several days to weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure and individual factors. Pain management, wound care, and physical therapy may be part of your recovery plan. You will be closely monitored for any signs of complications or infection.

Risk Management

Commando surgery carries inherent risks, including:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Damage to adjacent structures or organs
• Urinary or bowel complications
• Sexual dysfunction
• Lymphedema (swelling caused by the removal of lymph nodes)

Benefits of Commando Surgery

Complete tumor clearance: Commando surgery aims to achieve complete removal of the tumor, reducing the risk of recurrence and improving long-term outcomes.

• Potential cure or disease control: For certain pelvic cancers, commando surgery offers the potential for cure or long-term disease control.
• Improved quality of life: By removing cancerous tumors and affected tissues, commando surgery can relieve symptoms, alleviate pain, and improve overall quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will commando surgery cure my cancer?

Commando surgery is an important part of cancer treatment, but its success depends on various factors, including the stage and type of cancer. It is often performed in combination with other treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy to improve outcomes.

2. How long does it take to recover from commando surgery?

Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the surgery and individual factors. It may take several weeks to months to fully recover. Your healthcare team will provide specific instructions and support to facilitate your recovery.

3. Will I need further treatment after commando surgery?

Depending on the stage and characteristics of your cancer, additional treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be recommended to target any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.

4. What are the long-term effects of commando surgery?

The long-term effects of commando surgery can vary depending on the specific procedure and individual factors. Some potential long-term effects include changes in bowel or urinary function, sexual dysfunction, or the need for ongoing medical follow-up.

5. Can commando surgery be performed using minimally invasive techniques?

In some cases, commando surgery can be performed using minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopy or robotic-assisted surgery. However, the feasibility of these approaches depends on factors such as tumor size, location, and surgeon expertise.