More than ever before, advances in treatment are improving outcomes for patients with all stages of ovarian cancer.

You’ll find these innovative therapies — as well as an expert team of compassionate specialists — at the Cancer Centers of Sharp HealthCare. Our cancer program is nationally accredited by the U.S. Commission on Cancer, so you and your loved ones can rest assured that you’re receiving the highest-quality care. We also offer second opinion services for patients outside of Sharp, who have recently been diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

An expert team dedicated to you

At Sharp, our recognized team of experts will collaborate closely with you — and each other — on a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

These specialists include:

• Gynecological oncologists — doctors with specialized training in treating reproductive cancers, including advanced surgical procedures

• Medical oncologists who provide chemotherapy and immunotherapy

• Radiation oncologists who provide radiation therapy

• Patient navigators to support you from diagnosis through treatment and follow-up

• Registered dietitians and nutritionists

• Licensed clinical social workers to help you through your cancer experience

• Genetic counselors to help determine hereditary risk for developing certain cancers

• Rehabilitation therapists, including specially trained therapists who can help manage and treat pelvic floor problems or lymphedema related to ovarian cancer

• Clinical trial specialists

• Fertility specialists, who can provide guidance on family planning options, including egg retrieval and freezing

And to ensure you're receiving the very best treatment, a team of physicians and specialists meets regularly to discuss your diagnosis and individualized approach to treatment.

Advanced treatments for ovarian cancer

Our skilled and compassionate care team offers leading-edge treatments for ovarian cancer, as well as access to the latest clinical trials. Treatment may include:

• Surgery — Cervical cancer is often treated with surgery. There are different surgical options, depending on the stage of your cancer and other factors related to your diagnosis. Surgery may include removing a portion of your cervix, the entire cervix, or the uterus and cervix (hysterectomy). A hysterectomy may also involve removing your ovaries and pelvic lymph nodes. Our surgeons are experts in performing robotic-assisted hysterectomies, a less invasive procedure than traditional hysterectomies, with a faster recovery time.

• Pelvic floor reconstruction surgery — These procedures can relieve bladder, bowel or sexual symptoms associated with gynecologic surgeries and can sometimes be performed at the same time as surgery to remove the ovarian cancer.

• Chemotherapy and immunotherapy — Patients may receive medication through their veins (IV) or swallowed in a pill form to target cancer cells directly or harness the immune system to attack cancer cells.

• Cold capping (scalp cooling) — This type of therapy may help minimize hair loss during chemotherapy treatment for eligible patients. It works by gently cooling the scalp before, during and after an infusion, helping protect hair follicles from the effects of chemotherapy.

• Hormone therapy — For some ovarian cancers, hormone therapies can fight cancer by blocking the hormones that fuel their growth. These medications block the production or action of estrogen.

• Radiation therapy — We use specialized radiation that precisely targets ovarian cancer cells while minimizing exposure in normal, healthy tissues in the pelvic area.

• Clinical trials — Patients at Sharp have access to new therapies and treatments for ovarian cancer through our Clinical Trials Program.

Support for you and your loved ones

Care at Sharp goes beyond treating cancer. We provide support and education with you and your loved ones in mind, every step of the way. Our comprehensive patient resources include:

• Cancer support groups and resources

• “Chemo brain” and cognitive resources

• Connections to community assistance, including financial support

• Integrative medicine therapies, such as massage and acupuncture

• Nutrition counseling

• Translation services

• Transportation assistance

Get a second opinion from Sharp

A diagnosis of ovarian cancer often feels overwhelming. Receiving a second opinion from Sharp HealthCare can offer reassurance about your diagnosis or help you plan the most appropriate course of treatment. A second opinion can provide you with a more accurate diagnosis or even a change in diagnosis. You may also learn about innovative therapies and treatment options you didn’t know were available.