The Gynecologic Oncology Program at Blumenthal Cancer Center is the region's largest and most comprehensive program for women with gynecologic cancers. We provide all available treatment options including surgery (inclusive of advanced minimally invasive and robotic surgery), chemotherapy, radiation therapy and access to current clinical trials.

The Gynecologic Oncology Program offers evaluation and treatment of difficult gynecologic problems including reconstructive surgery and various treatment options for pre-malignant lesions of the female genital tract. Blumenthal Cancer Center provides outpatient therapies, which formerly required hospitalization. Treatment is provided in an area specially designed for infusions, chemotherapy and transfusions. The area is staffed by nurse specialists in chemotherapy, an oncology pharmacist, a nutritionist, a counselor and a chaplain.

Treatment

A multidisciplinary treatment plan for each patient is formulated after the initial consultation with one of the gynecologic oncologists. Women requiring hospitalization are cared for in a specialized nursing unit in Carolinas Medical Center. Most gynecologic cancers require a multifaceted treatment approach. These may include electrocoagulation therapy or laser ablation for pre-invasive cancer of the cervix, as well as surgery, radiation and/or chemotherapy for more advanced types of gynecologic cancer (inclusive of vaccines, biological modifications and intraperitoneal chemotherapy).

The Gynecologic Oncology Program participates in research through the Gynecologic Oncology Group, sponsored by the National Cancer Institute. A number of investigator-initiated studies are also available which are unique to Blumenthal Cancer Center. Other innovative and cutting-edge chemotherapy regimens are available through relationships with major pharmaceutical oncology divisions.

Patient Education and Genetic Risk Assessment
 
According to program director James B. Hall, MD, "Sixty-five percent to 70 percent of women with ovarian cancer are diagnosed at stage III." Therefore, the Gynecologic Oncology Program places a major emphasis on patient education and risk assessment. An ovarian cancer risk assessment is available to women who are concerned that they may be at risk for ovarian cancer due to a family history of ovarian or breast cancer.

The Cancer Risk Assessment Program is a joint program between Blumenthal Cancer Center and the Clinical Genetics Program. A carefully chosen team of physicians, genetic counselors, nurses and support counselors assist patients, their families, and referring physicians regarding cancer risk factors and recommendations for care.

The initial consultation is performed by a certified genetic counselor that verifies the patient's family medical history and estimates the risk. If indicated, consultation with one of the gynecologic oncologists is available.

Innovative Cancer Research
Blumenthal Cancer Center also offers access to the most innovative clinical trials. To learn more, please click here. 

For more information, please call 704-355-2884 or 800-804-9376.