Gynaecology oncology service

We treat women with suspected or diagnosed gynaecological cancer. Women are cared for by a multidisciplinary team of experts including gynaecological surgeons, oncologists (specialists in radiotherapy and chemotherapy) and clinical nurse specialists.

We provide care for women affected with all cancers of the reproductive system including:

• Endometrium (Womb)
• Ovarian
• Cervical
• Vaginal
• Vulval

Diagnosis and tests for gynaecological cancer

A number of tests and investigations are required when diagnosing a gynaecological cancer.

If your GP suspects your symptoms may be due to cancer you will be given an appointment to see one of our specialists within two weeks. We offer a rapid access service.

You may be asked to attend a general Gynaecology clinic or a specialist clinic where specialist tests and examinations can be carried out.

Outpatient hysteroscopy clinic

Women with postmenopausal or abnormal bleeding are often seen in these clinics. A small camera is inserted through the cervix to visualise the cavity of the womb.  At the same time a biopsy of the lining of the womb can be obtained to rule out the presence of pre- cancer or cancer changes.

Outpatient colposcopy clinic

Women with abnormal smears are referred to our colposcopy clinic where the cervix is visualised with a microscope to identify changes. Biopsies or treatment can be offered if abnormalities are identified.

MDT

All patients with a suspected or confirmed cancer are discussed at our weekly multidisciplinary team meeting (MDT). The MDT meeting provides a forum for team members to discuss and agree a recommended programme of treatment specific to individual patients needs. Necessary investigations are then carried out as quickly as possible and best treatment is offered. Treatment options can then be discussed with the patient and their family. You can see our information leaflets on the Trust’s dedicated patient information leaflets page – just scroll down to gynaecology.

Surgery

Surgical treatments can vary according to the type of cancer, stage of the cancer, age and desire to preserve fertility. Your surgeon will explain what surgery would be advised and how this may affect you, how we would expect you to recover and any possible complications.

Early stage endometrial cancer and diagnostic surgery can be offered locally. Watford is our specialist cancer centre and cancers with specific type, higher stage at diagnosis and those expected to have more complex surgery are performed there.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy treatment is delivered in the Lister Macmillan Cancer Centre or referred to Mount Vernon Hospital. Clinical trials are supported at both Lister Hospital and Mount Vernon Hospital.

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy treatment is not offered locally. We have links to Mount Vernon Hospital and the majority of our patients go there for their treatment.

Support

We recognise that coming into hospital for investigations or treatment can be a difficult time for you and those close to you. We will make sure you will receive the best care and support possible. You will be given the name of your key worker at your first clinic appointment. This is a nurse who specialises in gynaecological cancer, called a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

CNS are available to:

• Help coordinate your care from diagnosis to treatment and through to follow-up care.
• Be a familiar face that can provide support to you and your family.
• Provide information on tests, investigations and treatment options.
• Offer support and advice on symptom control.    
• Provide a link to other professionals and support services.
• Provide individual holistic needs assessment for patients.

CNS Team

Dawn Atkinson

Ally Baker

Working days

Monday – Friday (9am- 5pm)

Lister Contact Number :01438 284580

Mobile 07887633074

The Clinical Gynaecological Oncology Team

Mr Alasdair Drake – Consultant Gynaecologist Oncologist

Miss Ghadah Ahson – Consultant Gynaecologist and Clinical Director

Mr Robert Sattin – Consultant Gynaecologist

Dr Ignacio Vazquez – Medical Oncologist and Tumor Site Lead for Gynaecology

Professor Marcia Hall – Medical Oncologist

Professor Peter Hoskin – Medical Oncologist

Dr Hannah Tharmalingam – Medical Oncologist

Dr Sue Buckingham – Consultant Radiologist

DR Sarah Williams – Consultant Radiologist

Dr Seema Angra – Consultant Histopathologist

Dr Ashish Narula Consultant Histopathologist

Charlotte Wilson, secretary to Miss Ahson and Mr. Drake: 01438286176