If you have been diagnosed with cervical cancer, you have three basic types of treatment available. Which treatment is used depends on several factors, including the type and size of the growth, the patient’s age, the patient’s desire to have children, and the stage of the cancer.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays and other types of radiation to kill off cancer cells. There are two types of radiation therapy: external radiation therapy and internal radiation therapy. External radiation therapy uses a machine to send radiation toward the cancer. Internal radiation therapy uses a radioactive substance sealed into a seed or wire that is placed directly into or near the cancer.
Chemotherapy uses drugs to stop the growth of cancer cells. It works in one of two ways: chemotherapy may kill the cancerous cells or it may simply stop them from dividing. Regional chemotherapy affects a particular area. Systemic chemotherapy affects cancer cells throughout the body via the bloodstream. The type and progression of the cancer will determine which kind of chemotherapy is used.
Surgical removal of the cancer is the third option for treating cervical cancer. A hysterectomy removes the uterus and cervix (and other parts of the reproductive system, if necessary). Conization removes a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix; this procedure can also be used to diagnose cervical cancer and is also known as a cone biopsy. Cryosurgery or cryotherapy freezes and destroys abnormal tissue. Laser surgery can remove surface lesions and tumors; a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) cuts away abnormal tissue or cancers using a wire loop and an electrical current.
Doctors are researching new ways to treat cervical cancer. If you are in the early stages of the disease, you may be interested in volunteering for a clinical trial. Participating in clinical trials can help doctors find better ways to treat cervical cancer and gives you access to cutting edge therapies for your own treatment.
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