Urologic Oncology
Urologic cancers, affecting organs of the urinary and male reproductive systems, rank among the most prevalent cancer types. Edwards Comprehensive Cancer Center's Urologic Oncology Program offers patients:
- A multidisciplinary team of specialists in oncology, surgery, recovery, and aftercare Individualized care plans
- Advanced treatment options and participation in National Cancer Institute-sponsored clinical trials
- Ongoing research for innovative methods in cancer prevention, detection, and treatment
Common Urologic Cancers
Prostate Cancer
- Third most common cause of cancer-related deaths in men
- Detected through prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing
- Often asymptomatic, with symptoms manifesting in advanced stages
Bladder Cancer
- Fourth most common cancer in men, eighth in women in the US
- Symptoms include blood in urine, pain during urination, and frequent urges to urinate
- Early diagnosis crucial for timely treatment
Kidney Cancer
- Develops in the lining of tiny tubes inside the kidneys
- Risk factors include smoking, genetic conditions, and prolonged pain medicine use May lack early symptoms, but signs can include blood in urine, abdominal lump, weight loss, and pain
Less Common Urologic Cancers
Testicular Cancer
- Occurs most frequently in men aged 20 to 39
- Risk factors include undescended testicle, previous testicular cancer, and family history
- Symptoms involve testicular lumps, swelling, pain, or discomfort
Penile Cancer
- Rare cancer starting in the penis
- Unknown exact cause
- Symptoms include genital lesions, painless sores, pain, and bleeding
- Diagnosis through biopsy; treatment includes chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery
Adrenal Cancer
- Forms in adrenal glands above the kidneys
- Adrenal glands control vital functions
- Symptoms include fever, abdominal mass, feeling of fullness, and weight loss
Urologic Cancer Surgery
daVinci® Surgical Program
- Led by experienced robotic surgeon, Dr. James C. Jensen
- Over 1,000 da Vinci kidney, bladder, and prostate procedures performed
- Minimally invasive approach for reduced risk of impotence and incontinence
- Shorter hospital stays, less pain, lower infection risk, and faster recovery
The da Vinci Surgical System is a revolutionary technology that has transformed the landscape of surgical procedures, particularly in the field of cancer treatment. Developed by Intuitive Surgical, the da Vinci system is a robotic surgical platform designed to enable minimally invasive procedures with enhanced precision and control. The precision of the robotic arms allows surgeons to target and remove cancerous tissues with a high level of accuracy. The da Vinci Surgical System represents a significant advancement in cancer treatment, offering patients a less invasive and more precise approach to surgery. The technology continues to evolve, and its application in various cancer specialties is expanding.