Treatments For Childhood Cancer

Surgery

When most individuals discuss surgery as a treatment option for cancer, they generally mean the physical removal of a tumor. A surgeon will take both the tumor and some of the healthy tissue surrounding it. This type of procedure is used for both cancerous and benign tumors. Many children who have cancerous tumors will need at least one operation to continue with their treatment.

The surgical goal is the removal of the whole tumor, along with the tissue immediately surrounding it. This ensures no cancer is left in the remaining tissue. Ideally, this tissue will be healthy and not become infected by cancer cells. In most cases with children, microscopic cells of the tumor will remain following the operation. At this point, an oncologist will recommend radiation and chemotherapy, or another course of treatment.

Operation side effects vary widely depending on where the tumor was, along with how large it was. Parents concerned about the side effects their child might face should touch base with their medical team before the operation.

Continue to learn about a hallmark way of helping treat children affected by cancer.