Cancer Surgery

When you have cancer surgery at MultiCare, you are in expert hands. We use the latest techniques and technologies to give you the best chance of becoming cancer-free. Our team includes surgeons who have completed additional training through fellowships in areas such as breast surgery, gynecologic oncology and minimally invasive techniques. This level of education helps us deliver the best available care even for complex cancers. Meet our cancer care team.

Cancer surgery at MultiCare often includes minimally invasive techniques, which use smaller incisions than traditional open procedures. Minimally invasive techniques help us treat cancer in sensitive areas, such as the colon, with a high degree of precision.

Minimally invasive techniques available at MultiCare:

Endoscopic procedures. Endoscopic procedures help us treat cancers affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) system, such as esophageal and colorectal cancers, with a high success rate. During this type of procedure, a surgeon passes the endoscope through natural openings in the body and uses specialized instruments to access the cancer.

Laparoscopic procedures. After making several small incisions, a surgeon inserts a thin tool with a small video camera and light attached to it — known as a laparoscope — through one of the incisions. The camera provides high-definition images of the surgical area, allowing for a high degree of accuracy. Similar to an endoscopic procedure, surgeons use specialized tools to access the cancer.

Robotic-assisted surgery. Robotic “arms” and special technology are used to support a level of precision not possible with human hands alone. Robotic-assisted surgery allows us to safely remove cancer in delicate areas, such as the cervix. The surgeon directs every move the robot makes.

Our commitment to research enables us to explore new, more effective approaches to cancer surgery. Your care may include treatments only available in select programs through clinical trials. Learn more about cancer research.