Advanced medical treatment for cervical cancer

In advanced medical treatment for cervical cancer, in addition to conventional surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, the latest technologies and treatment methods are being introduced to improve treatment effectiveness and reduce side effects. In particular, treatment options for advanced and recurrent cancers are increasing and personalized medicine is progressing. Below are the main advanced medical approaches and technologies for cervical cancer.

1. Robot-assisted surgery (da Vinci surgery)

Abstract: Robotic-assisted surgery is a minimally invasive procedure performed using the da Vinci Surgical System. The precision maneuverability of the system allows tumors to be removed while protecting surrounding organs and tissues, compared to traditional open surgery.
Advantages: smaller wounds, less post-operative pain and less blood loss, resulting in a faster recovery.It also reduces the risk of complications and improves quality of life, especially for early-stage cervical cancer.

2. Laparoscopic surgery

Summary: Laparoscopic surgery is a procedure in which a small incision is made in the abdomen and the uterus and tumor are removed using an endoscope and specialized instruments. It is particularly effective in the treatment of cervical cancer, especially in the early stages.
Advantages: less invasive, less burden on the patient, faster post-operative recovery and fewer post-operative complications.Due to the low burden on the body, this surgical procedure is easily applicable to elderly patients and patients with pre-existing medical conditions.

3. Evolution of radiotherapy (IMRT and IGRT)

Abstract: Radiotherapy uses the latest technologies such as intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) to deliver radiation precisely to the tumor. This allows high doses to be focused on the tumor with minimal damage to normal tissue.
Advantages: improved radiation accuracy reduces side effects and increases effectiveness on cancer cells. Effective against locally advanced and recurrent cervical cancer.

4. Heavy particle radiotherapy

Description: heavy particle radiotherapy is an advanced form of radiotherapy that uses heavy particles, such as carbon ions, to attack cancer cells They have higher energy than conventional radiotherapy and destroy cancer cells more efficiently.
Advantages: it has a strong therapeutic effect on the tumor with minimal damage to normal tissue. It is effective against advanced or recurrent cancers and can be applied in cases where surgery is difficult.

5. Proton beam therapy

Description: proton beam therapy is a treatment that uses protons to focus radiation with high precision on a tumor. The proton beam releases very little energy on its path to reach the tumor and concentrates on the tumor.
Advantages: attacks tumors with a high degree of accuracy, minimizing the impact on normal tissue. Useful for recurrent cervical cancer and in cases where surgery is difficult.

6. Molecularly labelled therapies

Abstract: Molecular targeted therapies work on specific molecules or genes in cancer cells.For cervical cancer, treatment is also based on specific molecular mutations.For example, treatments targeting VEGF or drugs that inhibit EGFR may be used.
Advantages: works effectively against cancer cells with minimal impact on normal cells. May be effective against advanced or recurrent cancers, especially when chemotherapy is not effective.

7. Immunotherapy (immune checkpoint inhibitors)

Summary: Immunotherapy is a treatment that activates a patient’s immune system to attack cancer cells. For cervical cancer, immune checkpoint inhibitors (e.g. pembrolizumab) are sometimes used to prevent cancer cells from escaping the immune system.
Advantages: may be effective against advanced or recurrent cancers that do not respond well to chemotherapy or radiotherapy, with fewer side effects and long-term therapeutic effects.

8. Cancer genomic medicine

Abstract: Cancer genomic medicine is an approach that analyses the genetic profile of a patient’s cancer cells and provides personalized treatment based on genetic mutations. In cervical cancer, the most appropriate treatment is selected based on specific genetic mutations and biomarkers.
Advantages: personalized treatment tailored to the genetic mutations of each patient, and the selection of specific molecularly targeted drugs and immunotherapies, which are expected to be more effective and have fewer side effects.

9. High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) therapy

Description: HIFU is a non-invasive treatment that heats and destroys cancer cells by concentrating high-intensity ultrasound waves on the tumor. As it does not involve incisions, the treatment is less stressful on the body and recovery is faster.
Advantages: suitable for patients who are difficult to treat with surgery or at risk of recurrence, with the main advantages being fewer side effects and less stress on the body. Suitable for local tumor treatment.

10. Nano knife (irreversible electroporation, IRE)

Description: nano knife is a treatment that sends electrical pulses to cancer cells to destroy their cell membranes and kill them. It is particularly applicable to tumors in areas where there are surrounding vital organs and blood vessels.
Advantages: minimal impact on normal tissue, can be applied to cancers in areas that are difficult to operate on. It is a local treatment and suitable for cases with a high risk of recurrence.

Summary

Advanced medical treatment for cervical cancer offers a wide range of options, including robot-assisted surgery, molecular targeted therapy, immunotherapy and radiotherapy, enabling personalised treatment.This allows for optimal treatment according to the patient’s condition and the progression of the cancer, which is expected to improve the effectiveness of treatment and reduce side effects.

In particular, advances in cancer genomic medicine and immunotherapy are providing new treatment options for advanced and recurrent cancers that have not responded to chemotherapy and conventional treatments.

The following is a list of the most important factors to consider. It is important to fully consult with a specialist and consider personalized treatment using the latest technology.

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