INFO & BLOG
About diagnosis, treatment and recovery
What is vaginal cancer and why is it rare?
It is a cancer that develops in the tissue of the vagina, most often of the squamous cell type, and one of the rarest gynecologic cancers.
How do HPV and prior cervical/vulvar lesions affect vaginal cancer risk?
HPV infection is an important risk factor; a history of cancer or precancerous lesions in the cervix/vulva area also increases risk.
Which symptoms warrant evaluation and biopsy?
Abnormal vaginal bleeding (especially after menopause or intercourse), unusual discharge or a sensation of a mass warrant evaluation and biopsy.
Why is chemoradiation preferred over surgery in most vaginal cancers?
Because of the vagina’s proximity to neighboring organs, chemoradiation is preferred over surgery in most cases as an organ-sparing approach.
In which selected cases is surgery considered?
In early-stage, suitably located tumors, the option of minimally invasive/robotic surgery is considered where appropriate.
What is brachytherapy, and what is the difference between intracavitary and interstitial?
Brachytherapy delivers a high dose directly to the tumor; intracavitary places the source within a cavity, interstitial within the tissue via fine needles.
Who decides between surgery and radiotherapy, and based on what?
The decision is made together by the multidisciplinary oncology council, based on the stage of the disease and its location within the vagina.
How does radiotherapy protect neighboring organs such as the bladder and rectum?
Precise dose distribution is achieved with IMRT/VMAT and TrueBeam LINAC, protecting neighboring organs such as the bladder and rectum.
How does treatment affect sexual function, and how is vaginal rehabilitation done?
Vaginal rehabilitation, sexual health and quality-of-life support are offered to preserve function after treatment.
How does the process work for international patients?
International patients receive visa, transfer, accommodation and medical translator support; the process can be started remotely by sharing the file.