Home  | About Us  | News & Events  | Contact Us  | Directions

Health Information Services Physicians Referring Physicians Hospitals and Clinics Academic Affiliates Patients & Visitors Faculty & Staff

Ellis Fischel Cancer Center 115 Business Loop 70 W. Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 882-2100 About Clinical Trials Directions Disease Sites Ellis Fischel Gala Ellis Magazine E-mail a Patient E-mail Us Employment Gift Shop Guest House Index A to Z Make a Gift Margaret Proctor Mulligan     Breast Health Center Phone Numbers Physician Information Support Groups Treatment Programs Submit Comments

Gynecologic Oncology

Gynecologic Oncology is really a combination of two specialties into something uniquely its own. An easy way to begin to understand gynecologic oncology is to break it in two. Gynecologic or gynecology has to do with a woman's reproductive organs, sometimes called the genital tract. This includes the uterus, cervix, ovaries, vagina, and outer skin, called the vulva or perineum. Though gynecologists do breast exams, they do not diagnose or treat diseases of the breast. Oncology, on the other hand, is the study of cancer. Therefore, gynecologic oncology is the study of cancer of the female genital or reproductive tract. It is considered a sub-specialty of obstetrics and gynecology.

Training

To become a gynecologic oncologist, a physician must undergo extra training for 3-4 years, following their four- year residency training in obstetrics and gynecology (Ob-Gyn). This training program is called a "fellowship" in gynecologic oncology. During this time, the doctor receives training in special surgical techniques, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and research in addition to training in understanding the disease processes that make up this subspecialty. There are many types of oncologists (doctors who treat cancer) and gynecologic oncologists are unique in that they perform surgery, give chemotherapy and participate in radiation therapy. Unlike other oncologists, many of whom focus on one particular form of therapy, be it surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, and must refer their patients elsewhere for other forms of treatment. These other doctors may have received similar training in certain surgical/treatment techniques (urologists, general surgeons, medical oncologists) but have not received the extensive education in the specific disease process necessary for optimal management of these cancers.

Gynecologic Cancers

Gyn-oncologists are skilled at diagnosing and treating genital tract cancers. The four most common gynecologic cancers include endometrial cancer (cancer of the lining of the uterus), cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, cancer of the vulva (outer area surrounding the vagina), and a group of diseases, gestational trophoblastic disease. They also treat pre-cancerous conditions of these same organs.

The Health Care Team

Gyn-oncology nurses are an important part of the team caring for gynecologic cancer patients. They have experience in surgical nursing as well as chemotherapy administration, radiation, and clinical research. Frequently they work alongside the physician both in the clinic or office setting as well as in the hospital. They commonly serve as case managers to coordinate patient care, trouble shoot problems, and serve as patient advocates.

Resident physicians work under the supervision of the gynecologic oncologist. They spend long hours caring for patients and serve as crucial members of the medical team. Important members of the gyn-oncology health care team also include social workers, dieticians, outpatient and inpatient nursing staff, chaplains, and research and administrative associates. A multi-disciplinary team approach helps insure patients get complete, consistent, and expert care for all aspects of their disease while maintaining a personable and individualized approach.

Steven Westgate, M.D.
Radiation Oncologist