As part of The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Cancer Institute at MedStar Franklin Square, The Center for Surgical Oncology provides central Maryland with the same advanced technologies and multidisciplinary excellence offered at major university cancer centers across the United States. 

The Center for Surgical Oncology specializes in the treatment of especially difficult cancers, such as pancreatic cancer and metastatic cancer to the liver. Head and neck cancers, endocrine and gastrointestinal cancers as well as soft tissue sarcomas also are among the types of cancers treated here.

Expert Clinical and Surgical Care

Advanced Procedures, Faster Healing

Our surgical oncologists are an experienced team. Expert in the pathophysiology of cancer and its treatment modalities, they are known throughout the region for their surgical skill in treating especially difficult cancers, such as pancreatic cancer and metastatic cancer to the liver. Head and neck cancers, endocrine and gastrointestinal cancers as well as soft tissue sarcomas are among the types of cancers treated here.

Surgical approaches range from standard procedures to customized major resections. Emphasis is on advanced technologies and techniques that allow for quicker healing and improved patient outcome. Procedures are carried out for potential cure or palliation.

Clinical Trials, Treatment Options

Many patients are entered into adjuvant therapy according to national multi-institutional protocols available through our center. More than 25 clinical trials that investigate the treatment, palliation, or prevention of melanoma, breast and colorectal cancers are offered. Our center is an affiliate member of the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP). In addition, we are actively involved in recruiting patients to several industry sponsored studies, as well as local studies. We offer melanoma vaccine treatment, available only at MedStar Franklin Square.

Oncology Nursing and Communication with Community Doctors

Oncology Nursing, Compassionate Teamwork

Our oncology nursing team is comprised of registered nurses who have achieved national certification by the Oncology Nursing Society. Their focus is to provide the resources necessary for the patient’s complete recovery and to support the patient and family. As compassionate and highly qualified clinicians, they administer therapy, supervise patient care, and emotionally support the patient and family. As educators, they inform patients and families on cancer-related topics, such as follow-up care, symptom control and illness prevention.

Comprehensive Communication with Community Doctors

The primary care of most patients is carried out by community physicians, making information sharing vital. Members of our faculty discuss treatment of difficult cases at weekly tumor boards and deliver lectures throughout the state. We also offer consultations and second opinions.

Community physicians are encouraged to refer difficult cases to our center and to refer their patients for admission to clinical trials. Our one-on-one communication with referring physicians is timely and comprehensive.

Surgical Techniques

Minimally invasive cancer surgeries, including:

• Radiofrequency ablation
• Hepatic artery infusion
• Lymphatic mapping/sentinel node biopsy
• Parathyroidectomy

Imaging

• Ultrasound CT (computerized tomography)
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
• PET (positron emission tomography)

Chemotherapy & Hormonal Therapy Clinical Trials

• National Cancer Institute – sponsored National Surgical Adjuvant Breast & Bowel Project clinical trials, including protocols for treatment and prevention
• Industry studies
• Physician studies

Radiation Therapy

• Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)
• Brachytherapy

Support Services

• Screenings and Prevention
• Complementary therapy (guided imagery, massage,acupuncture and more)
• Image Recovery Center
• Nutrition Education
• Patient and Family Counseling

Cancer Prevention

• Genetic Risk Counseling and Assessment

For more information on any of these services, or to make an appointment with one of our physicians, call 443-777-7911.