This procedure works well for people with advanced ovarian cancer but serious complications are common, including risk of death.
Ovarian cancer has usually reached an advanced stage when it is detected. Maximal cytoreductive surgery (also known as extensive or ultra-radical surgery) for advanced ovarian cancer aims to improve outcomes for people with advanced ovarian cancer by removing all or almost all visible cancerous tissue. More tissue is removed than with standard surgery. As well as removing the ovaries, fallopian tubes and womb, tissue from the spleen, liver, diaphragm, peritoneum and bowel may also be removed.
The NHS website may have information on your condition and treatment options.
You can search the NHS website for information about consultants and hospitals that offer this procedure.
Is this procedure right for me?
You should be included in making decisions about your care.
Your healthcare professionals should explain the risks and benefits of this procedure and how it is done. They should discuss your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. They should offer you more information about the procedure. Your family or carers can be involved if you want or need them to be.
You will be asked to decide whether you agree (consent) to have the procedure. Find out more about giving consent to treatment on the NHS website.
Some questions to think about
- How many appointments will I need?
- What are the possible benefits? How likely am I to get them?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- Will I have to stay in hospital?
- What happens if it does not work or something goes wrong?
- What happens if I do not want the procedure?
- Are other treatments available?
Information and support
- NICE's information on interventional procedures guidance explains what an interventional procedure is and how we assess it.
- NICE’s information on interventional procedures recommendations explains what standard arrangements are.
These organisations can give you advice and support:
- Ovacome, 0800 008 7054
- Ovarian Cancer Action, 0207 380 1730
You can also get support from your local Healthwatch.
ISBN: 978-1-4731-5114-7
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