Blood tests

What is debulking surgery?

• Debulking surgery is a procedure to remove as much cancer as possible
• It is also called cytoreduction surgery
• Commonly used for ovarian cancer that has spread in the abdomen or pelvis
• The goal is to remove visible tumours and improve treatment success
• It is often combined with chemotherapy or radiation therapy

Why is debulking surgery done?

• To reduce the size of cancer tumours
• To slow cancer spread
• To improve the effect of chemotherapy
• To relieve symptoms caused by tumours pressing on organs
• To improve survival and quality-of-life

Which cancers may need debulking surgery?

• Ovarian cancer
• Endometrial cancer
• Primary peritoneal cancer
• Peritoneal mesothelioma
• Pseudomyxoma peritonei
• Some cancers that spread to the abdominal lining

What happens before debulking surgery?

• Doctors may give chemotherapy before surgery to shrink tumours
• Blood tests and scans are done before surgery
• Heart and organ function may be checked
• The anaesthesia team will review your medical history
• Your surgeon will explain the procedure and recovery process

What tests may be done before surgery?

Blood tests

• Complete blood count
• Kidney function test
• Liver function test
• Blood sugar test

Imaging tests

• CT scan
• MRI scan
• PET scan
• Chest X-ray
• Pelvic ultrasound

How should I prepare for surgery?

• Stop smoking or nicotine use
• Follow fasting instructions before surgery
• Arrange help at home after discharge
• Plan for a hospital stay of several days
• Inform doctors about medicines, vitamins, or supplements

What happens during debulking surgery?

• You will receive general anaesthesia
• The surgeon makes cuts in the abdomen
• Cancer tumours are removed as much as possible
• Reproductive organs may be removed in ovarian cancer
• Parts of nearby organs may also be removed if cancer has spread
• Some patients may receive heated chemotherapy called HIPEC during surgery

How long does debulking surgery take?

• Surgery may take 4 to 9 hours
• Time depends on: Tumour size Cancer spread Type of surgery
• Tumour size
• Cancer spread
• Type of surgery

What happens after surgery?

• You will stay in a recovery room first
• Pain medicines and fluids may be given
• Hospital stay may last 2 to 7 days
• Nurses will monitor your recovery closely
• Drain tubes may be placed temporarily

What care is given in the hospital after surgery?

• Pain management
• Wound care
• Breathing exercises
• Leg exercises to prevent blood clots
• Gradual increase in fluids and food intake
• Monitoring for infection or bleeding

What are common side effects of debulking surgery?

• Pain
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Vaginal bleeding or spotting
• Slowed bowel movements
• Swelling near the surgery site

What are the possible complications?

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Internal bleeding
• Lymphedema
• Bowel or bladder problems
• Temporary bowel blockage called ileus

What are signs of infection after surgery?

• Fever
• Chills
• Redness or swelling near the wound
• Pus or discharge
• Feeling very unwell

What are signs of blood clots?

• Swollen or painful leg
• Red or warm skin on the leg
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Coughing blood

How long is recovery after debulking surgery?

• Recovery may take several weeks to months
• Heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 6 weeks
• Fatigue is common during healing
• Recovery may take longer if bowel surgery was done

What activities should I avoid during recovery?

• Heavy lifting
• Driving
• Strenuous housework
• Intense exercise until approved by your doctor

Is debulking surgery the same as hysterectomy?

• No, a hysterectomy removes the uterus and related organs
• Debulking surgery removes cancer tumours from multiple areas if needed

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