Cancer Surgery
When you’re facing cancer, you want the most experienced oncology surgeons in Iowa on your treatment team. Trust William R. Bliss Cancer Center in Ames for expert surgical care in a modern, well-equipped setting tailored to your needs.
How Surgery Helps Treats Cancer
Your cancer care team may recommend surgery to remove a tumor or affected tissue from your body. In some cases, your surgeon may also take out the organ or area where the cancer began—such as the breast, colon, or prostate—to prevent cancer from returning.
Sometimes, surgeons remove only part of a tumor if taking out all of it would risk damage to nearby organs.
Comprehensive Cancer Treatment
No matter what type of surgery you need, your personalized treatment plan may also include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation therapy. These combined therapies aim to eliminate remaining cancer cells and improve your long-term outcome.
Minimally Invasive Cancer Surgery
Ask your surgeon at Mary Greeley Medical Center if a minimally invasive approach is right for you. This technique uses small incisions, leading to:
- Faster recovery
- Less pain
- Minimal scarring
Advanced Robotic Surgery
For certain procedures, your surgeon may use the da Vinci® surgical robot. This technology mimics human hand movements with even greater precision, using tiny, highly flexible instruments to perform complex tasks through smaller incisions. People often experience:
- Reduced hospital stays
- Lower risk of complications
- Faster return to daily activities
Preparing for Cancer Surgery
Know what to expect before and after your procedure. Your care team will guide you through every step—from pre-surgical instructions to post-operative recovery and follow-up care.
Why You Should Quit Smoking Before Surgery
If you smoke, quitting before your operation reduces your risk of surgical complications and improves healing and recovery. Talk to your care team about resources to help you quit and boost your overall cancer treatment success.
