Uterine Sarcoma

Surgery is the most common treatment for uterine sarcomas. Scripps surgeons frequently perform gynecologic surgeries that once required large incisions and extensive recovery time through minimally invasive techniques that use small incisions, potentially resulting in a faster recovery, less blood loss, reduced pain and scarring and a shorter hospital stay.

Hysterectomy

Whenever possible, Scripps surgeons perform hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) using single-site robotic surgery, which requires just one small incision. If this is not appropriate, our surgeons also perform hysterectomy through an abdominal incision, through the vagina or through minimally invasive procedures, such as laparoscopic surgery or robotic-assisted surgery.

Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy

Surgeons remove the fallopian tubes and both ovaries, often using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques.

Lymph node dissection

Surgeons remove lymph nodes from the pelvic region and the area next to the heart’s aorta to see if the cancer has spread. This can be performed through a minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery.

Chemotherapy can be part of a treatment plan to shrink a tumor before surgery, eliminate cancer cells that remain after surgery, or treat cancer that has spread from the uterus.

External beam radiation therapy may be provided alone or with chemotherapy. A form of radiation therapy called brachytherapy, in which radioactive sources are placed directly into the body through catheters or small plastic tubes, may be used.

Hormone therapy drugs that slow the growth of uterine cancer or reduce the production of estrogen may be treatment options. These drugs include progestins and gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists.

Scripps hosts a free support group for women with uterine sarcoma and other gynecologic cancers.

Gynecologic cancer support group – Virtual

This support group meets virtually or by phone, bringing together patients who face similar challenges.

3rd Wednesday, 1 - 2 pm

Contact info: Jeanne Vestevich, LCSW, 760-492-5899 or vestevich.jeanne@scrippshealth.org

In support of our patients, survivors, their family members and the community, we also host a handful of free workshops and health and wellness events on a number of topics such as:

• Nutrition
• Expressive writing
• Yoga
• Meditation

Check the current list of support offerings or contact your oncology social worker or cancer care coordinator.

For info about other cancer support groups in the San Diego community, call the American Cancer Society at 800-227-2345.

We are here for you — not only as your oncologists, but as a robust multidisciplinary team of experts who understands that your cancer journey is about much more than your medical treatment. Specifically, Scripps Cancer Center offers a variety of patient support services to ensure your physical, psychological and emotional well-being as well as resources for dealing with the logistical and financial aspects of cancer care. Our services and resources include:

• Oncology nurses and nurse navigators with extensive clinical expertise in cancer care to help guide you and your caregivers to make informed decisions and ensure your optimal care.
• Palliative care to provide an extra layer of supportive care to manage pain and relieve symptoms, offer emotional and spiritual support, and improve your quality of life. 
• Oncology social workers specially trained to provide counseling, connect you with community and medical resources, assist with transportation and housing and coordinate care after discharge.
• Our registered dietitian nutritionists offer individualized nutrition support for patients whose efforts to optimize their nutrition may be affected by cancer symptoms or treatment side effects.
• Referrals and professional care from experts in psychology, psychiatry and emotional health, including individual and family counseling to help with the emotional challenges of cancer.
• Physical rehabilitation and occupational therapy services, including wound care, voice therapy and swallowing therapy, lymphedema therapy, balance and vestibular rehabilitation, yoga and more.
• Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine for patients interested in mind-body healing through acupuncture, biofeedback, herbal nutrition, massage therapy, integrative cancer care and more.
• Nondenominational spiritual care offered by our chaplains to help coordinate spiritual care with your own clergy, rabbi or spiritual advisor.
• Visiting patient services if you reside beyond San Diego and want help arranging appointments or learning more about short-term lodging.

For the full spectrum of offerings, please visit our cancer patient support services section.