If the cancer has spread, the surgeon usually removes as much of the cancer as possible to reduce the amount of cancer that will have to be treated later with chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Chemotherapy is the use of anticancer drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. After chemotherapy is completed, second-look surgery may be performed to directly examine the abdomen. The surgeon may remove fluid and tissue samples to see whether the anticancer drugs have successfully eliminated the cancer. Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, involves the use of high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
Radiation therapy affects the cancer cells only in the treated area.
In some studies, all patients receive the new treatment. Through research, doctors learn new, more effective ways to treat cancer. Information specialists translate the latest scientific information into understandable language and respond in English, Spanish, or on TTY equipment. Includes information on understanding trials, deciding whether to participate in trials, finding specific trials, plus research news and other resources. CancerMail Includes NCI information about cancer treatment, screening, prevention, and supportive care.