Uterine Cancer

There are two different types of uterine cancer: endometrial cancer is the most common uterine cancer and is characterized by cancer in the lining of the uterus. Uterine sarcomas is a rare cancer that grows in the muscles or other supporting tissues in the uterus. Our team of specialists in Gynecologic Oncology department use the latest techniques and technology to quickly diagnose and treat uterine cancer.

Uterine Cancer Care at UVM Medical Center

Oncologists, nurses, and specialists work together to provide the best uterine cancer care at the UVM Medical Center:

• Our knowledgeable doctors treat about 250 gynecology inpatients each year.
• Our team of specialists work with you in every step along the way to treating your uterine cancer. We offer a wide variety of educational information so you understand your diagnosis and treatment options fully.
• Our team uses the most advanced techniques and equipment to treat uterine cancer. We offer robotic surgery for uterine cancer treatment because this minimally invasive procedure reduces your pain and shortens recovery.

Diagnosis for Uterine Cancer

The specialists at UVM Cancer Center provide a variety of tests for uterine cancer diagnosis, including:

• Annual pelvic exam - This is a standard procedure where your doctor performs a physical examination of your pelvic area.
• Transvaginal ultrasound - A wand is inserted into your vagina to create a video picture of your uterus and its lining.
• Hysteroscopy - A thin, lighted tube with a tiny camera on the end is inserted to get a look at your uterus and its lining.
• Tissue sampling (biopsy):
  • Samples can be taken from the lining of the uterus while in the doctor's office.
  • Surgical biopsy. This procedure is called dilation and curettage where tissue is gently scraped from the lining of your uterus. The sample is later analyzed in a lab for cancer cells. This procedure is typically done while you are under general anesthesia.

Uterine Cancer Treatments

Experts at the UVM Cancer Center will determine the best uterine cancer treatment for you based on the type and stage (severity) of cancer. Treatment options could include:

• A hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus). This is often the first recommendation for women with early stage gynecologic cancer. Hysterectomy may include removing the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and select lymph nodes.
• Radiation therapy, including:
  • External beam. Radiation aimed at specific body points from the outside.
  • Internal radiation. Brachytherapy is when something filled with radiation (seeds, cylinder or wire) is placed within your body for a short time.
• Hormone medications or therapy. Drugs that reduce estrogen or increase progesterone.
• Chemotherapy. Chemicals are either injected or taken in a pill to kill cancer cells.
• Robotic surgery for uterine cancer treatment at the UVM Medical Center offers many benefits over traditional treatments.

Uterine Cancer at UVM Medical Center: How We Compare

Our knowledgeable doctors treat about 250 gynecology inpatients each year.

Resources

Download an informational brochure about hysterectomy.