Ovarian cancer is cancer that begins in the ovaries, the reproductive glands in women that produce eggs. Although ovarian cancer may be diagnosed at any stage, the American Cancer Society states that less than 20 percent of all ovarian cancers are found before they spread outside the ovary. Advanced ovarian cancer typically refers to the last two stages of this disease, stages III and IV.
Surgery
In advanced ovarian cancer, surgery may be a treatment option. In these later stages, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) describes surgery as more extensive and including a total abdominal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (removal of both ovaries and fallopian tubes), and an omentectomy, in which the omentum is removed. Post-surgery treatment depends on how much cancer was able to be removed during the operation.
Chemotherapy
After surgery for advanced ovarian cancer, chemotherapy is a standard treatment that is given. Typical drugs used in chemotherapy regimens include cisplatin or carboplatin and paclitaxel, according to the American Cancer Society. While chemotherapy is often given intravenously, another option with advanced disease is intraperitoneal (IP) chemotherapy. This is when chemotherapy is given through a port in the abdomen and the medications go directly into the abdominal cavity. IP chemotherapy is used in patients with minimal disease remaining after surgery because if there is extensive cancer, the treatment is not as effective.
Palliative Treatment
In advanced ovarian cancer, some treatments may be given to ease symptoms that arise from the advanced stage of the disease, such as pain or intestinal blockage. Fluid called ascites can build up in the abdomen, and a treatment called paracentesis can be done; this involves draining the fluid through a needle placed into the abdomen after the area has been numbed. Ovarian cancer can also cause bowel obstructions which can be dangerous and painful, and surgery may be performed to fix the blockage; if this is not possible, a tube may be placed in the stomach to allow digestive juices to drain, according to the American Cancer Society. This can alleviate pain and nausea from the blockage.
Clinical Trials
Your doctor may recommend participation in clinical trials, which are research studies that use new, experimental treatments that may be more beneficial than current options. These studies are closely monitored for any adverse effects and participants may drop out at any time. Not everyone is eligible to participate in studies; your health care team can give you more information about possible trials you can participate in if you choose.
