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Clinical Updates
Program Update- UCLA Division of Gynecologic Oncology
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Advanced... and Still Advancing
The UCLA Division of GynecologicOncology embodies an exceptional combination of medical and scientific expertise that places it in the front line of patient care and gynecologic cancer research. While offering the most innovative treatments currently available, UCLA physician-scientists are also furthering the scientific understanding of gynecologic cancers and developing tomorrow's groundbreaking therapies.
But even while developing and delivering some of the newest ways to care for cancer patients, UCLA physicians continue practices whose value has long been known: showing concern for their patients' well-being and sensitivity to their needs. Together with their colleagues in medical and radiation oncology, pathology and radiology, and with crucial support from a team of other healthcare professionals, Division of Gynecologic Oncology physicians offer their patients the full treatment and support resources of UCLA.
Robotic Surgery and Beyond
When surgery is indicated, laparoscopic techniques can be used in many cases to perform operations through one or more small openings and avoid the pain and cosmetic disadvantages of larger incisions. Minimally invasive techniques allow for shorter hospital stays and quicker recoveries compared to surgery done through a conventional opening.
UCLA's gynecologic cancer surgeons are all experienced in the use of robotic surgery, further extending their ability to perform minimally invasive surgery. During robotic surgery, the surgeon works at a console that includes a magnified, three-dimensional view of internal structures. The surgeon operates a pair of hand controls that duplicate hand motions with micro-instruments operating within the patient's body.
Offering a superior view of the surgical area, enhanced movement within the patient's body and very fine control, robotic technology allows surgeons to sometimes achieve results that would not otherwise be possible. The complex and delicate nature of many gynecologic oncology surgeries lends itself to the robotic surgical approach. For example, when surgeons have to take biopsies from lymph nodes in a number of locations around the abdominal cavity to see if the cancer has spread, robotic surgery often provides an excellent ability to see clearly and operate precisely without having to make a large incision.
Focusing on People, Not Disease
Care at UCLA extends beyond medical and surgical treatments to include the understanding and support we provide
all our patients and their families. An experienced oncology nurse works closely with each patient, answering questions and addressing concerns while making sure that patients and their families get the most out of UCLA's considerable resources. Gynecologic cancer surgeons understand the difficulty of dealing with a cancer diagnosis and treatment. They make an extra effort to be available to their patients in order to meet patients' needs at all stages of their care. Patients also have access to UCLA resources for psychological and psychosocial support.
New Understanding and New Treatments
UCLA's Division of Gynecologic oncology has an unusual commitment to scientific research, with most of the physicians heading their own research laboratories in addition to treating patients. This rare combination of clinical medicine and scientific research enables our physician-scientists to apply experience gained in each discipline to be more effective in both.
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