If you’re preparing for a consultation about cancer surgery, it helps to know what to expect and what to bring. This page answers common questions from patients and caregivers, so you can walk into your consultation feeling more prepared.
If available, bring relevant reports and previous treatment records — this includes diagnostic reports, imaging (such as CT or MRI scans), pathology or biopsy reports, a list of current medications, and details of any previous treatment. Having these on hand allows your surgical oncologist to give you a more complete and accurate assessment.
A consultation typically involves a review of your reports, a discussion of your diagnosis, and an explanation of the surgical options that may be relevant to your case. It's a good opportunity to ask questions and understand your options before any decision is made — you're not expected to decide anything on the spot.
No. Whether surgery is appropriate depends on the cancer type, its stage, and individual circumstances — some cancers are treated primarily with other approaches.
Planning generally draws on your diagnosis, staging, imaging and pathology results, along with a specialist assessment of your overall health.
Yes, in some cases. Depending on the diagnosis, surgery may be planned alongside chemotherapy, radiation, or other treatments.
Not always. The sequence of treatments varies by cancer type and individual clinical circumstances.
A minimally invasive technique where the surgeon operates using a robotic system for greater precision in certain procedures.
No — the surgeon controls the robotic system throughout the procedure.
No. Suitability depends on the cancer type, stage, and a detailed individual assessment. Learn more on the Robotic Cancer Surgery page.
A consultation may be appropriate if you've received a cancer diagnosis and are considering surgery, if a specialist surgical opinion has been recommended, or if you simply want to understand where surgery might fit into your treatment. This page offers general information — it isn't a substitute for individual medical assessment, so persistent or concerning symptoms should always be discussed with a healthcare professional directly.
It's reasonable to want a second opinion before a significant decision like cancer surgery. Many patients find that an additional specialist assessment helps them feel more confident about their treatment plan, whether or not it changes their original recommendation.
Dr. Nishanth Sanghavi is a surgical oncologist based in Ahmedabad, trained at the Gujarat Cancer & Research Institute (GCRI), with a fellowship in advanced laparoscopic oncosurgery from Galaxy Care Institute, Pune. He is the founder and consultant surgical oncologist at Zanish Cancer Hospital, Naranpura, Ahmedabad.
Treats cancer through surgery, often working with other cancer specialists to plan appropriate care.
After a cancer diagnosis, or when your reports suggest surgery may be relevant to your treatment.
Diagnostic reports, imaging, biopsy results, current medications, and any previous treatment records you have available.
Questions about your diagnosis, surgical options, risks and benefits, alternatives, and what recovery may involve.
No — this depends on the cancer type, stage and individual circumstances.
No. It's considered case by case, based on clinical assessment.
Yes. A second opinion is a reasonable step before any major treatment decision.
Speaking with a surgical oncologist can help you understand your diagnosis and options more clearly.
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