Baptist Health’s Miami Cancer Institute recently performed the first uterine transposition surgery in the Southeast US region, led by gynaecologic surgical oncologist Dr. Jean-Marie Stephan. This innovative procedure relocates the uterus and ovaries away from radiation exposure, thereby preserving fertility for young female cancer patients.
The surgery’s success is a crucial advancement in cancer treatment, offering renewed hope for young adults facing colorectal and gynaecologic cancers, and having the potential to improve quality of life amidst rising cancer diagnoses.
Here, Dr. Stephan explains more about this ground-breaking surgical development.
Q. What’s the current scenario for how cancer treatment impacts fertility?
A. Cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery can profoundly impact fertility by affecting reproductive organs. These therapies may cause damage to the ovaries as well as the uterus, leading to infertility or reduced fertility in women. Consequently, patients undergoing cancer treatment may face challenges in conceiving naturally or may require assisted reproductive techniques, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), to achieve pregnancy. Despite these challenges, advancements in fertility preservation techniques offer hope for preserving fertility potential before starting cancer treatment.
Q. How does this procedure help preserve fertility for female cancer patients?
A. This procedure is instrumental in preserving fertility for female cancer patients by sparing the uterus and ovaries from radiation exposure. By relocating these reproductive organs to the upper abdominal region, we can shield them from potential damage during cancer treatment, offering hope for future pregnancies and family planning.
Q. What are the key benefits of moving the uterus and ovaries to the upper abdominal region?
A. Moving the uterus and ovaries to the upper abdominal region allows for targeted radiation treatment to the pelvis, where the cancer is located. This strategic relocation minimises the risk of radiation-related damage to the reproductive organs while effectively addressing the cancerous tissue, optimising the patient’s chances of successful treatment and future fertility.
Q. How do you envision this surgical option impacting young female patients diagnosed with pelvic cancer in the future?
A. We anticipate that this surgical option will have a profound impact on young female patients diagnosed with pelvic cancer in the future. By providing a viable pathway to preserve their fertility despite their cancer diagnosis, we’re empowering these patients to pursue their dreams of starting a family. This innovative approach represents a paradigm shift in cancer care, offering renewed hope and possibilities for young adults facing challenging diagnoses.
Q. Can you explain the significance of Miami Cancer Institute’s achievement in conducting uterine transposition surgery?
A· Miami Cancer Institute’s achievement in conducting uterine transposition surgery marks a significant milestone in cancer treatment, particularly for female patients facing pelvic cancer diagnosis. As the first cancer centre in the Southeast region to successfully perform this procedure, we’re pioneering new avenues for preserving fertility and enhancing the quality of life for our patients.
