Vaginal Cancer
Vaginal cancer is not common, and there are several types. At NewYork-Presbyterian, our gynecologic oncologists have exceptional expertise treating all types of vaginal cancer, including squamous cell cancer, adenocarcinoma, melanoma, and sarcoma. No matter what your cancer type, we have the treatment you need. If you are in your childbearing years and interested in having children, we try to preserve your fertility whenever possible.
A Team of Vaginal Cancer Specialists
Your care team includes gynecologic oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, nurses, and others with experience treating vaginal cancer. Together they discuss your case—taking into account your cancer type, stage, location, and general health—to customize a plan of care aimed at curing your cancer.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Most women with vaginal cancer have surgery to destroy or remove the tumor. Your gynecologic oncologist will choose the least invasive surgery possible to treat your cancer, depending on its type and extent of growth.
- Laser surgery. If you have pre-cancerous cells on the surface of the vagina, you may be able to have laser surgery to "burn" the cancer cells.
- Vaginectomy. If your tumor has grown more deeply into the vaginal wall, you may have vaginectomy to remove all or part of the vagina.
- Hysterectomy. Women with more advanced vaginal cancer may need to have the vagina and entire body of the uterus removed.
- Robotic vaginal cancer surgery. Your surgeon may be able to use robotic surgery to remove your cancer or your uterus. With this approach, you'll have smaller incisions, less postoperative discomfort, and a quicker recovery than with traditional open abdominal surgery.
Radiation Therapy and Chemotherapy
If your vaginal cancer is deeply invasive or spread to nearby lymph nodes, your doctor may recommend radiation therapy and chemotherapy to kill the cancer cells. You can receive finely targeted radiation therapy in our state-of-the-art radiation treatment centers, and chemotherapy in our modern and comfortable infusion centers. These centers are staffed by skilled and compassionate professionals whose goal is to cure your cancer while supporting your health and well-being.
Clinical Trials
Our gynecologic cancer specialists participate in and lead clinical trials assessing promising new treatments for gynecologic cancers. Your doctor will let you know if you are eligible to participate in a clinical trial of an innovative therapy for vaginal cancer. Learn More.