Surgical Oncology

Surgical Oncology

Oncologists are doctors who study, diagnose and treat cancer. Though there are a variety of specialists within the field of oncology, three major specialties are medical oncology, radiation oncology and surgical oncology.

While medical oncology chiefly uses chemotherapy treatments, a radiation oncologist specializes in radiation therapy. These non-surgical treatments may be used for patients, before or after surgery, to further prevent cancer growth and spread. Treatment for cancer requires a team approach, with many specialists working together to provide individualized treatment plans and care for each patient. Our surgical oncologists collaborate with medical oncologists and other teams to deliver the most comprehensive care for patients.

We have also established treatment regimens such as heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy. We are the first place here in Wichita to have started that, and that also allows for advanced treatment to be given to patients with advanced tumors of certain types.— Ali Ahmad, MD, Surgical Oncologist

What is Surgical Oncology?

For some patients, surgery may be needed to diagnose the cancer, determine its stage or as an effective treatment option during early or advanced stages of cancer. This specialized field of cancer care is called surgical oncology.

There are various reasons why a patient diagnosed, or suspected to be diagnosed, with cancer may be the right candidate for surgery. Primarily, surgical oncologists perform surgery to remove cancerous tumors and tissue from your body during the treatment of cancer.

Surgery may also be used to obtain valuable information about a patient’s condition, such as its stage, or to accurately diagnose a growth or tumor. Commonly, a surgical oncologist will perform a procedure called a biopsy to determine whether there is cancer in a patient’s body and to define its severity.

In addition, surgical treatments may be utilized for preventative purposes, to remove high-risk tumors or cells that may become cancerous in the future.

Types of Cancer We Treat
At Wichita Surgical Specialists, our surgical oncologists specialize in the diagnosis and surgical management of most types of cancer.

  • Melanomas and Sarcomas
  • Colon & Rectal Cancer
  • Pancreatic Cancer
  • Endocrine Cancer
  • Esophageal Cancer
  • Gastrointestinal Cancer
  • Gallbladder and Liver Cancer (Hepatobiliary)
  • Stomach (Gastrointestinal / Gastric Cancer)
  • Lung Cancer

Our Surgical Specialties

Through compassionate care, comprehensive diagnosis and innovative procedures, we are dedicated to providing the best treatment approach for each patient. Our surgical oncologists utilize advanced, minimally invasive surgical techniques, traditional open surgeries, as well as complex robotic surgery. These surgical procedures include advanced laparoscopic surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy.

Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery
Depending on your specific condition, your oncology specialist may recommend advanced laparoscopic surgery as part of your diagnostic or treatment plan. Advanced laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses smaller incisions than traditional open surgery. A laparoscope, or thin surgical instrument with a miniature camera attached, is inserted, allowing the surgeon to view internal organs through a monitor while performing the procedure.

In comparison to traditional open surgery, laparoscopic surgical procedures can result in benefits for patients such as less pain, less scarring, faster recovery times and reduced risk of wound infection.

Common laparoscopic procedures for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer include colon, gallbladder or stomach. However, your surgeon will determine if this is the best approach for you.

Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC)
Hyperthermic (Heated) Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy, or HIPEC, may be an effective treatment option for patients with advanced abdominal cancers. After all perceivable tumors are removed from the peritoneal (or abdominal) cavity, the surgeon pumps heated chemotherapy agents into the abdomen. Heated chemotherapy is delivered directly to the abdominal cavity, allowing it to penetrate the tissue fully and target any remaining cancerous cells.

For additional information or to schedule an appointment with our surgical oncologist at Wichita Surgical Specialists, please call 316-263-0296, or toll-free 800-362-3130.

Physicians

  • Ali Ahmad, MD, FACS
    • Surgical Oncology
    • General Surgery
    • Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery
    • Colon & Rectal Surgery
    • Esophageal & Gastrointestinal Surgery
    • Endocrine Surgery
    • Melanoma and Sarcomas Surgery
    • Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery
    • Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC)
  • Headshot photo of Dr. Sarah Corn Sarah D. Corn, MD
    • Surgical Oncology
    • General Surgery
    • Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery
    • Gastrointestinal Surgery
    • Endocrine Surgery
    • Melanoma & Sarcoma Surgery
    • Breast Surgery
    • Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery
    • Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) & Peritoneal Disease