What is the role of surgery in cancer treatment?

Surgery plays a critical role in cancer treatment primarily as a means to remove tumors and the surrounding tissues that may contain cancer cells. This approach aims to achieve a clear margin, ensuring that any cancerous cells are eradicated and reducing the risk of recurrence. When a tumor is localized and operable, surgical excision can be one of the most effective ways to treat cancer, often leading to a potential cure. Surgical intervention can also be pivotal for staging the cancer, which allows for a more informed treatment plan moving forward.

While enhancing chemotherapy effectiveness is important, surgery alone does not directly influence the efficacy of chemotherapy treatments. Pain relief can be an important aspect of cancer care, particularly in advanced cases, but it is not the primary role of surgery itself. Administering radiation therapy is a distinct treatment modality that is not performed through surgical procedures. Together, these different approaches can be integrated into a comprehensive cancer treatment plan, but the fundamental role of surgery remains focused on the physical removal of tumors.