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Cancers We Treat at the Department of Surgical Oncology

Surgery can be the right treatment option for many types of cancer.

Our surgical oncologists have diverse skill with advanced technologies and minimally invasive surgical options for the cancer types below.

Brain and Nervous System Cancer

The Adult Neuro-Oncology Program at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center specializes in treating tumors of the brain and spinal cord.

UPMC neurosurgeons use computerized image guidance systems, endoscopes, and other tools to treat both noncancerous and cancerous:

  • Brain and skull base tumors
  • Cranial nerve disorders
  • Neurovascular conditions
  • Some spinal problems

Breast Cancer

There are two main types of breast cancer: ductal carcinoma and lobular carcinoma. Some types of breast cancer can affect men.

The Magee-Womens Breast Cancer Program of UPMC Hillman Cancer Center provides state-of-the-art breast cancer treatments for women and men.

Colorectal and Gastrointestinal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is a disease in which cancerous cells form in the tissues of the colon or the rectum.

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are a family of diseases that affect tissues or organs within the digestive system, such as the:

  • Anus
  • Biliary system
  • Bowels
  • Esophagus
  • Liver
  • Pancreas
  • Stomach

Gynecologic Cancer

Surgical oncologists at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center care for women with cancers of the reproductive system.

These include:

  • Cervical cancer
  • Ovarian cancer
  • Uterine cancer

Head and Neck Cancers

For people with head and neck cancers, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center offers the latest treatments and clinical trials. Our doctors work together on the most effective care plan to meet your specific needs.

Endocrine and Thyroid Cancers

Endocrine cancer occurs in glands — found in many places in the body — that produce hormones.

These glands include the:

  • Thyroid
  • Parathyroid
  • Pituitary
  • Adrenal

Endocrine cancer can also affect other hormone-producing tissues.

Liver Cancer

The UPMC Liver Tumor Program offers complete care for people who have liver cancer and liver disease.

UPMC surgeons specialize in treating:

  • Benign liver tumors
  • Bile duct cancer (cholangiocarcinoma)
  • Gallbladder cancer
  • Metastatic liver cancer
  • Primary liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)

Lung and Esophageal Cancer

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center offers specialized care for people with:

  • Small-cell lung cancer
  • Stage III non-small-cell lung cancer

Melanoma and Skin Cancer

Find personalized and coordinated treatment for all phases of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers.

The UPMC Hillman Cancer Center Melanoma and Skin Cancer Program combines the expertise of our surgeons with those in:

  • Dermatology
  • Medical and radiation oncology
  • Pathology

Pancreatic Cancer

The pancreas is an organ deep within the abdomen. Cancer of the pancreas is hard to detect. Doctors often don't find it until it's at an advanced stage.

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is a recognized leader in minimally invasive and robotic surgery of pancreatic cancer.

Prostate and Urologic Cancers

Prostate cancer is a malignant tumor of the prostate gland, a small structure that makes up part of the male reproductive system.

Urologic cancers include:

  • Bladder cancer
  • Renal cancer
  • Renal pelvic cancer
  • Testicular cancer

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center's urologic surgeons have vast skill in treating prostate cancer and all types of urologic cancers.

Sarcoma

Sarcoma is a group of cancers that develop in soft tissue and bone.

The most common types UPMC Hillman Cancer Center surgeons treat include:

  • Ewing's sarcoma
  • Osteosarcoma
  • Soft tissue sarcoma

Expert Care for All Types and Stages of Cancer

No matter what type or stage of cancer you have, the experts at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center are ready to help. We're equipped to treat your disease and help you cope with the demands of cancer treatment.

Our surgeons will work to devise a treatment plan that respects your wishes and holds the most promise for meeting your goals.

Contact Us About Surgical Oncology Treatment

To learn more about surgical oncology treatment at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, please call us at 412-647-2811.