Anaesthesia for gynaecological oncological surgery

Gynaecological malignancy surgery can be eventful for both anaesthetists and surgeons. Surgical access for pelvic malignancy may be difficult; gynaecological tumours often have non-specific features, present late for treatment, and can achieve an impressive size before they are investigated. Proximity of the gynaecological tumour to other abdominal structures such as the kidneys or rectum may require input from other surgical specialties. Neurovascular bundles and lymph nodes are often adherent to the pelvic side wall, making dissection difficult. Finally, surgical staging is required for most cancers as microscopic disease cannot be determined through radiological investigations.