Uterine Cancer

Uterine (Endometrial) Cancer and Sentinel Lymph Node Applications

Uterine cancer (Endometrial cancer) is the most common type of cancer in the female reproductive system. Typically manifesting in the postmenopausal period, this disease is among the most highly diagnosable and successfully treatable cancers because it presents symptoms like vaginal bleeding at an early stage. Prof. Dr. Selçuk Erkılınç provides his patients with treatment opportunities using minimally invasive (closed) methods and advanced technological mapping techniques throughout this process.

Symptoms and Diagnostic Methods of Uterine Cancer

The most typical symptom of uterine cancer is vaginal bleeding experienced during the postmenopausal period. In the premenopausal period, menstrual irregularities and excessive bleeding can serve as warning signs. Dr. Erkılınç follows these steps during the diagnostic stage:

• Transvaginal Ultrasonography: Measuring the thickness of the uterine wall.

• Pipelle Biopsy or Curettage (D&C): Performing a pathological examination by taking a tissue sample from inside the uterus.

• Hysteroscopy: Direct visualization of the inside of the uterus via a camera.

Sentinel Lymph Node (Mapping)

In traditional uterine cancer surgeries, all lymph nodes in the abdomen were removed against the possibility of cancer spread. However, this condition could cause persistent swelling in the legs, known as “lymphedema,” in patients. Prof. Dr. Selçuk Erkılınç utilizes the Sentinel Lymph Node technique, which is a modern approach. In this method:

• A specialized dye is injected into the cervix.

• The first lymph node where the cancer is likely to spread (the sentinel node) is detected, and only this node is removed.

• If this “sentinel” node is clear of cancer, the other lymph nodes are left untouched; thus, the patient is protected from unnecessary surgery and the risk of leg swelling.

Laparoscopic (Closed) Uterine Cancer Surgeries

Prof. Dr. Selçuk Erkılınç performs a major part of uterine cancer surgeries using the Laparoscopic (closed) method. The advantages of this operation, performed by entering through tiny openings, include:

• Considerably less pain and blood loss compared to open surgery.

• Shorter hospital stays (usually discharged within 24 hours).

• Minimized risk of infection and aesthetically scar-free results.

Post-Treatment Follow-Up and Quality of Life

Whether additional treatments (radiotherapy or chemotherapy) are required in the postoperative period is decided through a multidisciplinary approach based on the stage and type of the tumor. Dr. Erkılınç implements a follow-up program aimed not only at freeing his patients from cancer but also at ensuring that postoperative sexual health and general comfort of life remain at the highest level.