Frequently, these newer techniques are not available at community or even larger urban cancer centers. Other non-surgical therapies for gynecological cancers such as radiation and chemotherapy, are also available at the Southwest Cancer Center. We are affiliated with National Cancer Institute-supported research groups and, therefore, offer the newest treatments, sometimes even before they are available in the medical community. Since we are affiliated with Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, we have extensive experience in treating or offering second opinions in rare or complicated cases referred from other centers. Finally, we emphasize cancer prevention and offer educational programs in gynecological oncology and ovarian cancer screening.
Consultation regarding abnormal pap smears is also available.
Pathology The Department of Pathology assists the clinicians not only in the initial diagnosis of a malignancy, but also in following the progress of therapy. Tissue biopsies, such as those from the breast, cervix, prostate, colon, and bone marrow areevaluated by anatomic pathologists using both standard microscopic techniques and newer, cutting-edge technologies such as flow cytometry, immunohistology, and cytogenetics. Clinical pathologists evaluate chemical and blood profiles as well as assist in the diagnosis of infections which may occur in patients under therapy. Pathologists also contribute their unique expertise to multidisciplinary case reviews and clinical oncology protocols. It is used in the initial diagnosis, to determine the extent or involvement of the disease and to evaluate the response to therapy.