Cancer surgery

Last updated 20 Sep 2023

Highly specialist surgeons and the latest techniques

As part of your treatment for cancer, it is likely that we will recommend surgery as this is often the first approach to treating most forms of the disease.

Our highly-expert surgeons will aim to remove your tumour completely or as much of it as possible before you have further treatment, if necessary, with anti-cancer drugs (chemotherapy) or radiotherapy.

As one of our private patients, you can be assured of the vast experience and excellence of our surgical teams for different cancers.

Expert surgical care

We have some of the best surgeons in their field and many of them have a national and international reputation for the very high level of their expertise.

On some occasions, more than one surgical team or specialty is required to complete your treatment. Our teams collaborate very well and have worked together for many years to ensure the best possible outcome for you.

For example, if you have breast cancer you may have surgery performed by a specialist breast surgeon to remove the tumour followed by reconstructive surgery to rebuild your breast.

Or if you have head and neck cancer, your treatment can involve input from specialist head and neck surgeons, neurosurgeons and plastic and reconstructive surgeons all working closely together to ensure the best possible outcome for you.

Leading-edge technology and techniques

Many of our surgeons are involved in leading-edge research in one of the country’s foremost surgical research departments through our affiliation to the Imperial College research institution.

Our surgeons are experienced in the latest pioneering techniques and where possible will apply these technical innovations to your cancer surgery.

Some of the techniques we use or are developing in trials include:

Robotic-assisted surgery

We have some of the most advanced robotic surgery equipment available anywhere in the world. The surgeon performs the operation and is aided by a high-tech robotic system which can lead to more precise surgery, quicker recovery and fewer complications.

Minimally-invasive laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery

We use high-tech robotic systems and advanced imaging to make tiny incisions leading to faster recovery and fewer complications.

Laser surgery

We use lasers to burn away cancer cells to treat certain cancers.

High-tech imaging

We use advanced imaging during operations, such as intraoperative ultrasound, for more accurate surgery.

Intelligent surgery

we have been instrumental in developing the iKnife, an ‘intelligent’ knife which uses technology to tell the surgeon in real time whether tissue is cancerous or not, enabling more accurate removal of tumours.

Helping you prepare for surgery

You may be anxious about having surgery and we will do our very best to reassure you and answer any concerns you may have. Your consultant surgeon will discuss with you the operation you are about to have and involve you in all treatment decisions.

We will make sure you are well enough for surgery and if appropriate will carry out an assessment of your health which may include tests such as blood tests, x-rays and other scans.

Depending on the type of cancer surgery you need, you may be with us for day care or a longer inpatient stay. During your recovery, our priority will be to ensure you are as comfortable as possible.