The Ireland Cancer Center is a full member and active participant in the Gynecologic Oncology group, the principal study group for gynecologic cancers. Physicians and researchers at the Ireland Cancer Center work together to offer patients the most sophisticated methods of cancer treatment.

Many factors are considered when selecting treatment for cervical cancer including:

• The stage or extent of the disease
• The size and location of the abnormality
• The age of the patient
• Desire to maintain ability to have children
• The patient’s general health

For pre-invasive disease, called carcinoma in situ, treatment options may include:

• Cryotherapy—freezing of the cancer cells
• Electrocoagulation—using an electric current to destroy cancer
• Laser ablation—using light therapy
• Conization—taking a cone-shaped wedge of cervical tissue
• Surgery—removing the cervix and uterus in those patients who no longer wish to have children

For invasive disease, treatment options may include:

• Surgery—removing the cervix and uterus in an operation called a hysterectomy
• Radiation Therapy—using high energy x-rays to destroy cancer
• Chemotherapy—using drugs to kill cancer cells
• Combination of above