Debulking, or cytoreductive surgery, removes as much visible tumour as possible when complete removal is not feasible. It is best known in advanced ovarian cancer, where reducing the amount of remaining tumour improves chemotherapy effectiveness.

The operation may involve removal of the uterus, ovaries, omentum, and affected parts of the bowel or peritoneum. It is a major operation, and fitness is assessed beforehand. Intensive care or high-dependency monitoring may be needed afterwards.

How the Procedure Can Help

It reduces tumour burden, relieves symptoms and can improve the benefit of chemotherapy.

Risks and Considerations

Risks include bleeding, bowel injury, infection, blood clots and a long recovery. Some patients need a temporary stoma.