Treatment of cervical cancer at the University Hospital Zurich (USZ) is highly individualized and is based on the stage of the tumour, risk factors and the patient's personal circumstances. The treatment concept is coordinated on an interdisciplinary basis and is based on the latest medical standards.
The main treatment methods include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, which are often used in combination. We carry out both operations and chemotherapy in the safe and sensitive environment of our clinic. Our trained Cancer Care Nurses will accompany you through the individual treatment steps.
Surgery is one of the primary treatment methods for cervical cancer, especially in the early stages of the disease. It aims to completely remove the tumor and prevent the disease from spreading. We attach great importance to operating as gently as possible. We perform our operations using minimally invasive and robot-assisted techniques, but also via an abdominal incision (if necessary).
In the early stages, surgery is usually the preferred treatment. For very small tumours, these include conization (excision of the cervix) or simple hysterectomy, possibly with removal of a pelvic lymph node.
For tumors up to 2 cm and without lymph node involvement, a uterus-preserving operation (so-called trachelectomy with removal of the cervix only) can be performed under certain conditions in order to preserve fertility.
During a lymphadenectomy, the lymph nodes in the pelvic area are removed, as cervical cancer often spreads via the lymph channels. This detects and treats the spread. We usually perform this as a sentinel procedure so that only very few lymph nodes need to be removed. Sometimes lymph nodes around the abdominal aorta are also removed to determine the radiation field.
Chemotherapy is often used in combination with radiotherapy (radiochemotherapy), especially for advanced stages of cervical cancer. It can also be used before surgery (neoadjuvant) or after surgery (adjuvant) to increase the effectiveness of the treatment. We also use immunotherapies for treatment. Chemotherapy for cervical cancer is usually carried out on an outpatient basis at our clinic. During therapy, the drugs that kill the cancer cells or inhibit their growth are administered intravenously.
The combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, known as radiochemotherapy, is a common treatment method for advanced cervical cancer. This combination can increase the effectiveness of treatment and reduce the risk of relapse. In selected cases, treatment can also be combined with immunotherapy. We also carry out targeted radiotherapy of the cervix (brachytherapy) at the USZ.
If possible, we will offer you participation in a study or advise you on current studies.
During treatment at the USZ, you benefit from numerous complementary therapies. This includes, for example, complementary medical treatment, supportive sports therapies or psycho-oncological support. Our trained Cancer Care Nurses will be happy to advise you in detail.
Follow-up care at the USZ is closely meshed and individually adapted in order to detect relapses early and treat side effects. This includes regular gynecological examinations, which can usually be carried out by your treating gynecologist, but can also be alternated with us by arrangement.
Rehabilitation programs can help improve physical and emotional health after treatment. This can include physiotherapy, nutritional counseling and psychological support.
The Gynecological Tumor Center of the USZ is an interdisciplinary center that offers you state-of-the-art diagnostic, treatment and surgical techniques. Each patient is discussed on an interdisciplinary basis at the tumor board in order to receive the best possible, individually tailored therapy. In our safe, empathetic and discreet environment, we offer you top medical care and prefer to treat you as an outpatient.
Director of Department, Department of Gynecology
Attending Physician, Department of Gynecology
You can either register yourself or be referred by your primary care physician or gynecologist.
Monday – Friday from 7.45 a.m. – 4.45 p.m.
University Hospital Zurich
Department of Gynecology
Frauenklinikstrasse 10
8091 Zurich