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Pelvic Exenteration

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What is Pelvic Exenteration
What is Pelvic Exenteration

What is Pelvic Exenteration?

  • Surgical removal of localized, treatment-resistant pelvic cancers
  • May involve affected organs like the rectum, bladder, cervix, or vagina
  • A curative option when other treatments have failed
  • Tailored to each patient based on cancer type and extent of spread

Advanced Surgical Treatment for Recurrent Pelvic Cancers

Designed for patients with recurrent anal, cervical, or rectal cancers when first-line treatments don’t work. This is typically limited to the lower pelvis and perineum. The procedure uses abdominal wall tissue for reconstruction to lower complication risk and aid healing. We take a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach to this complex procedure to ensure the best outcomes for the patient.

Our Collaborative Approach

  • Dr. Beth Moore: board-certified colorectal surgeon specializing in cancer removal
  • Dr. Lisa Cassileth: expert in advanced reconstructive surgery
  • Together they’ve performed hundreds of successful procedures
  • Focused on complete cancer removal, optimal post-op recovery, and appearance
Our Collaborative Approach
Our Collaborative Approach

Benefits of Pelvic Exenteration

Curative Treatment

Pelvic exenteration may cure recurrent cancer after other treatments fail.

Advanced Reconstructive Techniques

We use healthy abdominal tissue for immediate reconstruction to significantly improve healing.

Reduced Complication Rates

Studies show using non-radiated tissue cuts complication rates by over half compared to traditional approaches.

Comprehensive Care

Our team delivers integrated care from removal to recovery, ensuring continuous support throughout treatment.

Types of Pelvic Exenteration

The type of pelvic exenteration recommended will depend on your imaging results, cancer location, and overall health. Dr. Moore and Dr. Cassileth will create a personalized surgical plan focused on removing disease while preserving function.

Anterior Pelvic Exenteration

Total pelvic exenteration removes all pelvic organs and is used when cancer has spread throughout the pelvic region.

Posterior Pelvic Exenteration

This approach removes the rectum, anus, and reproductive organs when cancer is mainly in the back of the pelvis.

Total Pelvic Exenteration

This procedure removes the bladder, urethra, and reproductive organs in females, typically when cancer involves the front of the pelvis.

What to Expect From Your Procedure

Preparing for Pelvic Exenteration

Preparation begins with a full evaluation, including imaging, labs, and consultations with Dr. Moore and Dr. Cassileth. You'll receive detailed pre-op instructions covering medications, diet, and activity. Most patients have leakage, wounds, or radiation injury—these do not disqualify you from surgery.

How Pelvic Exenteration Works

Pelvic exenteration is performed in a hospital setting under general anesthesia. The procedure typically involves two main phases. The entire procedure may take several hours, depending on the extent of the cancer and the complexity of the reconstruction required.

Cancer Removal

Dr. Beth Moore performs the cancer removal, precisely excising affected tissues and organs while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

Reconstruction

Following cancer removal, Dr. Lisa Cassileth reconstructs the pelvis with healthy abdominal tissue to aid healing and reduce complications. The area is fully closed, usually with minimal waistline reduction and maintained function.

Recovery After Pelvic Exenteration

Recovery begins with a short hospital stay, where your care team will monitor progress and manage discomfort. Before discharge, you’ll receive clear at-home care instructions.

Timeline & Support
  • Recovery typically takes several weeks to months
  • Your care team provides ongoing physical and emotional support
Outcomes
  • Most patients report improved quality of life
  • Successful procedures may extend survival and ease symptoms
  • Your team will help set realistic expectations based on your specific case
At-Home Healing
  • Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing
  • Guidance on wound care and activity restrictions
  • Support with daily routine adjustments

Frequently Asked Questions About Pelvic Exenteration

Who is a Candidate for Pelvic Exenteration?

Candidates typically have recurrent anal, cervical, or rectal cancer unresponsive to treatment, with disease confined to the pelvis. Our team will evaluate if the procedure is right for you.

What Makes Our Reconstructive Approach Unique?
What Are the Potential Risks and Complications of Pelvic Exenteration?
How Long is the Recovery Period After Pelvic Exenteration?
Will I Need Additional Treatments After Pelvic Exenteration?

Contact Us

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact our Beverly Hills office—proudly serving patients across Los Angeles and Southern California.

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