Surgical Oncology

For cancers that involve a malignant tumor—a solid mass of cancerous cells—it’s critical that the tumor be eliminated. At USA Health, such cases are discussed in a multidisciplinary gathering called a tumor board. Team members consider the details of each case and collectively determine the best course of treatment. Sometimes it involves chemotherapy or radiation to help reduce the size of the tumor. Many times it involves surgery. That’s when a surgical oncologist can help.

USA Health surgical oncologists are board certified in surgery, often in more than one specialty. They train extensively in the latest surgical techniques, including minimally invasive procedures where appropriate. They are experienced at using the most state-of-the-art surgical techniques, such as the da Vinci robot.

USA Health surgeons use the most modern techniques and leading-edge technology to treat cancer.

Da Vinci Robotic Surgery System

Complex cancer surgeries are performed in a minimally invasive manner using this surgical apparatus. The oncological surgeon's hand movements are translated into minute, delicate movements that allow the surgeon to excise tumors in regions that require special sensitivity. Using the Da Vinci robotic surgery system, USA Health surgical oncologists performed the first robotic liver resection in south Alabama and Mississippi in 2019.

Firefly Sentinel Lymph Node Mapping

This revolutionary procedure employs the use of a fluorescent dye to indicate the exact location of lymph nodes where cancer has metastasized, causing the nodes to glow like fireflies. Our surgeons use this tool to help locate and removed affected lymph nodes so that cancer is less likely to spread.