Will ovarian cancer recur even after a complete surgical removal?
Mar 10, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Yunmei
Introduction
Even after complete surgical removal of ovarian cancer, recurrence remains possible. Ovarian cancer is highly aggressive, progresses rapidly, and exhibits marked heterogeneity—making it prone to both recurrence and metastasis. However, if surgery is performed at an early stage, the risk of recurrence decreases significantly. For intermediate- to advanced-stage disease, adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy, along with anti-tumor traditional Chinese medicine, are typically required; in some cases, a cure may still be achieved.
The ovaries are vital reproductive organs in women and, like other tissues, can undergo malignant transformation—such as ovarian cancer. Currently, cancer cannot be completely cured; instead, it is managed through various therapeutic approaches. However, early detection significantly improves prognosis. So, does ovarian cancer recur even after complete surgical removal? Below, we address this question.
Can ovarian cancer recur after complete surgical removal?
Yes, recurrence remains possible even after total surgical resection of ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is notoriously aggressive, with rapid progression and high genetic heterogeneity, making it prone to recurrence and metastasis. Nevertheless, if surgery is performed at an early stage, the risk of recurrence decreases substantially. For intermediate- to advanced-stage disease, adjuvant treatments—including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and anti-tumor traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)—are typically required; some patients may achieve complete remission, thereby further reducing recurrence risk. Active anti-tumor therapy helps minimize recurrence. Postoperatively, integrating dynamic TCM therapies is recommended, as these can effectively eliminate residual cancer cells and facilitate their elimination from the body. A comprehensive, integrative treatment strategy—combining conventional oncology with holistic TCM-based regulation—aims to strengthen the body’s healthy qi (vital energy), expel pathogenic factors, and achieve simultaneous treatment of both root cause and symptoms.
How is ovarian cancer screened?
1. Transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS)
Transvaginal ultrasound is a primary modality for early diagnosis of ovarian cancer, often combined with tumor marker assessment. It is rapid, cost-effective, non-invasive, and repeatable—making it the first-line imaging tool. However, small ovarian masses—particularly those under 1 cm in diameter—may not be clearly visualized; details regarding morphology, internal architecture, and relationships with adjacent structures can be difficult to discern, potentially limiting detection of tiny solid tumors.
2. Computed tomography (CT)
CT is a widely used and highly valuable diagnostic tool. It accurately depicts normal and abnormal pelvic anatomy and plays a critical role in characterizing pelvic masses, determining precise tumor location, and staging ovarian cancer. CT is also routinely employed for postoperative surveillance and follow-up, aiding in monitoring patient survival. Nonetheless, its sensitivity for detecting very small lesions remains limited, posing a potential risk of missed diagnosis.
We hope the above information is helpful to you.
