Surgery is the most common treatment method for uterine cancer cancer.

Removal of the uterus (hysterectomy)

A hysterectomy is usually performed, which involves removing the uterus and the cervix.

A total hysterectomy is normally done. This means removing the uterus and the cervix in addition to the fallopian tubes and the ovaries.

• Laparoscopic hysterectomy
  Surgical instruments and a laparoscope are inserted through small incisions made in the abdomen, thus allowing the surgeon to view images on a screen.
  The uterus and ovaries are removed through the vagina, and later the upper part of the vagina is sutured. Women recover more quickly from this type of hysterectomy, meaning shorter hospital stays. However, it is not appropriate for all patients.
• Abdominal hysterectomy
  A substantial incision is made in the abdomen above the pubis.

Lymph node removal

Some of the lymph nodes may be removed from the uterus or the upper abdomen so that they may be examined to see if they contain cancer cells. Knowing whether the cancer has spread into the lymph nodes helps your specialist decide what type of treatment is more suitable.

When the cancer has spread outside of the uterus

If the cancer has spread to nearby organs such as the bladder or intestines, an operation is usually done to remove as much tissue as possible. This helps control the cancer and may make the treatment given after surgery more effective.

A broad resection including removal of the bladder and intestine is carried out in select cases. This is a major operation called a pelvic exenteration.