Ovarian Cancer Treatment in Delhi

Ovarian cancer is one of the most serious gynaecological cancers and remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide. In India, the incidence of ovarian cancer continues to rise, particularly among women over the age of 50. Because the disease often develops without obvious symptoms in its early stages, many patients are diagnosed only after the cancer has spread beyond the ovaries.

Fortunately, advances in ovarian cancer treatment in Delhi, including cytoreductive surgery, HIPEC (Heated Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy), targeted therapy, and multidisciplinary cancer care, have significantly improved survival and quality of life for many patients.

Patients from New Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and across North India consult Dr. Archit Pandit, an AIIMS-trained Surgical Oncologist, for advanced ovarian cancer surgery, HIPEC treatment, second opinions, and comprehensive cancer care at Fortis Escorts Hospital, New Delhi.

What is Ovarian Cancer?

The ovaries are two small reproductive organs located on either side of the uterus. They produce eggs and female hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. Ovarian cancer develops when abnormal cells in the ovary begin to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumour that may spread to nearby organs or throughout the abdominal cavity if left untreated.

Unlike many other cancers, ovarian cancer often causes few or no symptoms during its early stages. As the disease progresses, patients may experience abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, changes in appetite, or urinary symptoms. Because these symptoms are common and often mistaken for less serious conditions, diagnosis may be delayed.

The majority of ovarian cancers arise from the surface lining of the ovary (epithelial ovarian cancer), although less common types can develop from germ cells or stromal cells. Treatment depends on the type of ovarian cancer, stage of disease, tumour spread, and the patient’s overall health.

Early diagnosis and timely treatment improve outcomes. Depending on the stage of cancer, treatment may include cytoreductive surgery, HIPEC, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy (in selected cases), or a combination of these treatments.

Types of Ovarian Cancer

Different types of ovarian cancer originate from different cells within the ovary and require personalised treatment planning.

Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Epithelial ovarian cancer accounts for nearly 90% of ovarian cancers. It develops from the outer lining of the ovary and is the most common type treated in adults. Depending on the stage, treatment usually involves surgery followed by chemotherapy.

Germ Cell Tumours

These rare ovarian cancers arise from the egg-producing cells of the ovary and are more commonly seen in younger women. Many germ cell tumours respond well to surgery and chemotherapy.

Stromal Cell Tumours

Stromal tumours develop from the hormone-producing connective tissue within the ovary. They are less common than epithelial ovarian cancers and are often diagnosed at an earlier stage.

Borderline Ovarian Tumours

Also known as tumours of low malignant potential, these grow more slowly than invasive ovarian cancers and generally have an excellent prognosis when treated appropriately.

Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer often develops silently, and symptoms may be vague during the early stages. Many women mistake these symptoms for digestive or urinary problems, which can delay diagnosis.

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent abdominal bloating
• Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
• Feeling full quickly while eating
• Loss of appetite
• Frequent or urgent urination
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent fatigue
• Changes in bowel habits, including constipation
• Abdominal swelling due to fluid accumulation (ascites)
• Back pain

Important: These symptoms do not always indicate ovarian cancer and may occur in many non-cancerous conditions. However, if these symptoms persist for more than two to three weeks or become progressively worse, consult a Surgical Oncologist in Delhi for timely evaluation and diagnosis.

Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer

Although the exact cause of ovarian cancer is not always known, several factors can increase the risk of developing the disease.

• Increasing Age: Most ovarian cancers occur after menopause, with the highest incidence seen in women over 50 years of age.
• Family History: Women with a family history of ovarian, breast, colorectal, or pancreatic cancer have a higher lifetime risk of ovarian cancer.
• BRCA1 and BRCA2 Gene Mutations: Inherited mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes significantly increase the risk of ovarian and breast cancers.
• Lynch Syndrome: Women with Lynch syndrome (Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colorectal Cancer) have an increased risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers.
• Never Being Pregnant: Women who have never had a full-term pregnancy may have a slightly higher risk compared to those who have had children.
• Endometriosis: Endometriosis has been associated with certain subtypes of ovarian cancer, particularly endometrioid and clear cell ovarian cancers.
• Obesity: Excess body weight has been linked to a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer and may affect treatment outcomes.
• Hormonal Factors: Long-term hormone replacement therapy after menopause may slightly increase ovarian cancer risk in some women.
• Personal History of Breast Cancer: Women previously diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those with hereditary cancer syndromes, may have a higher risk of ovarian cancer.

Can Ovarian Cancer Be Detected Early?

Unlike cervical or breast cancer, there is no reliable screening test for ovarian cancer for women at average risk. Because the disease often causes vague symptoms in its early stages, regular health check-ups and prompt evaluation of persistent abdominal or pelvic symptoms are important for early diagnosis.

Women with a strong family history of ovarian or breast cancer, or those with BRCA1, BRCA2, or Lynch syndrome, may benefit from genetic counselling and personalised surveillance.

Common investigations that may be recommended include:

• Pelvic Examination – Evaluates the ovaries and surrounding pelvic organs.
• Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVUS) – Helps identify ovarian cysts, masses, or abnormal growths.
• CA-125 Blood Test – Measures a tumour marker that may be elevated in ovarian cancer, although it is not specific enough for routine screening.
• Genetic Testing – Recommended for women with a significant family history or hereditary cancer syndromes.

Early evaluation can help detect ovarian abnormalities sooner and guide further diagnostic testing when required.

How is Ovarian Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosing ovarian cancer involves identifying the type, stage, and extent of the disease to plan the most appropriate treatment. Dr. Archit Pandit recommends a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging, and laboratory tests for an accurate diagnosis.

The diagnostic evaluation may include:

• Clinical Consultation – Assessment of symptoms, medical history, and pelvic examination.
• Pelvic Ultrasound (TVUS) – Evaluates ovarian cysts, masses, and other pelvic abnormalities.
• CA-125 Blood Test – Measures a tumour marker that may support the diagnosis and monitor treatment.
• CT Scan or MRI – Determines the size, location, and spread of the tumour.
• Biopsy & Histopathology – Confirms ovarian cancer and identifies the tumour type.
• Genetic Testing – BRCA1, BRCA2, and other genetic tests may be recommended to guide personalised treatment.

Early diagnosis allows accurate staging and personalised treatment planning. Patients from New Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and across Delhi NCR consult Dr. Archit Pandit for comprehensive ovarian cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Stages of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is staged according to how far the disease has spread. Staging helps determine the most appropriate treatment approach and provides information about prognosis.

Stage I

Cancer is confined to one or both ovaries or fallopian tubes and has not spread elsewhere. Surgery is often the primary treatment, followed by chemotherapy in selected patients.

Stage II

Cancer has spread to nearby pelvic organs, such as the uterus, bladder, or rectum, but remains confined to the pelvis.

Stage III

Cancer has spread beyond the pelvis into the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) and/or nearby lymph nodes. This is the most common stage at diagnosis.

Stage IV

Cancer has spread to distant organs such as the liver (outside the liver surface), lungs, or other distant sites. Treatment usually involves a combination of surgery and systemic therapy.

Advanced Treatment Options for Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer treatment is personalised based on the type of tumour, stage of disease, tumour spread, overall health, and individual treatment goals. A multidisciplinary team carefully evaluates each patient before recommending treatment.

Surgery

Surgery is the cornerstone of ovarian cancer treatment and aims to remove as much of the tumour as possible.

Cytoreductive Surgery (Debulking Surgery)

The primary goal of cytoreductive surgery is to remove all visible tumour deposits from the abdomen and pelvis. Complete tumour removal is one of the most important factors influencing long-term outcomes.

Total Hysterectomy with Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy

Removal of the uterus, both ovaries, and fallopian tubes is commonly performed for most epithelial ovarian cancers.

Omentectomy

Removal of the omentum (fatty tissue covering the abdominal organs), which is a common site of ovarian cancer spread.

Lymph Node Assessment

Nearby pelvic and para-aortic lymph nodes may be removed or sampled to determine whether the cancer has spread.

Fertility-Preserving Surgery

In carefully selected younger women with early-stage disease, surgery may preserve the uterus and one ovary to maintain fertility.

HIPEC for Ovarian Cancer

Heated Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC)

For selected patients with advanced ovarian cancer, HIPEC (Heated Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy) may be performed immediately after cytoreductive surgery.

During HIPEC, heated chemotherapy is circulated throughout the abdominal cavity to destroy microscopic cancer cells that may remain after surgery. Delivering chemotherapy directly into the abdomen allows a higher local concentration while limiting systemic exposure.

Potential benefits in carefully selected patients may include:

• Improved local disease control
• Reduced microscopic residual disease
• Lower risk of recurrence in selected cases
• Comprehensive treatment combined with cytoreductive surgery

The suitability of HIPEC depends on the extent of disease, overall health, previous treatments, and multidisciplinary evaluation.

Life After Ovarian Cancer Treatment

Recovery after ovarian cancer treatment depends on the stage of the disease, the type of surgery performed, and whether chemotherapy or targeted therapy is required. Most patients gradually regain their strength over the weeks following treatment, although complete recovery may take longer after extensive surgery.

Regular follow-up is an essential part of ovarian cancer care and helps detect recurrence early while monitoring overall health and recovery.

Follow-up Care May Include:

• Clinical examination and symptom review
• CA-125 blood test (when appropriate)
• CT scan or other imaging if indicated
• Monitoring for recurrence or treatment-related side effects
• Nutritional advice and supportive care
• Long-term survivorship and rehabilitation support

Patients are encouraged to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments and report any new or persistent symptoms promptly.

Why Choose Dr. Archit Pandit?

Choosing an experienced surgical oncologist is important for achieving the best possible outcomes in ovarian cancer. Dr. Archit Pandit provides evidence-based, multidisciplinary care tailored to each patient’s diagnosis and treatment goals.

Why Patients Choose Dr. Archit Pandit

• 15+ Years of Surgical Oncology Experience
• AIIMS-Trained Surgical Oncologist
• Expertise in Cytoreductive Surgery (Debulking Surgery) and HIPEC for selected ovarian cancer patients
• Personalised treatment planning based on the stage, tumour biology, and overall health
• Multidisciplinary care with medical oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and critical care specialists
• Advanced cancer treatment at Fortis Escorts Hospital, New Delhi
• Compassionate care with continued support from diagnosis through recovery

Take the First Step Towards Expert Ovarian Cancer Care

If you have persistent abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, an ovarian mass, have recently been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, or would like a second opinion, consult Dr. Archit Pandit for a comprehensive evaluation and personalised treatment plan.

Every treatment recommendation is based on an accurate diagnosis, cancer staging, multidisciplinary decision-making, and evidence-based surgical care to help patients make informed treatment decisions with confidence.

Book Your Ovarian Cancer Consultation

Expert Ovarian Cancer Care Starts with the Right Diagnosis

If you have persistent symptoms, an ovarian mass, a recent ovarian cancer diagnosis, or would like a second opinion, schedule a consultation with Dr. Archit Pandit. Receive a personalised treatment plan based on accurate diagnosis, advanced surgical expertise, and multidisciplinary cancer care.

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