Gynaecological Oncology

​The KK Gynaecological Cancer Centre is a one-stop centre that provides for the needs of women with cervical, uterus and ovarian cancer, and other gynaecological conditions. The centre cares for the patient in a holistic manner, from screening to diagnosis, treatment, and helping patients cope with the illness emotionally. A complete range of specialists from various disciplines form a team to care for patients' needs, in a warm and comfortable environment.

The centre also harnesses the latest in technology and medical innovations in the range of prevention and treatment services offered.

As the only centre in Asia to participate in an early papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine trial, the hospital played a significant role in obtaining approval for the world's first cervical cancer vaccine.

Our Clinical Services

Screening and Prevention

HPV Testing

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common virus that infects the skin. HPV spreads through sexual contact and is very common in young women. There are over 100 different types of HPV, most of which are harmless and your body's immune system will clear up the virus without any treatment required.

Around 40 types of HPV affect the genital area and these are divided into high risk and low risk types.

High risk HPV that persists in your body can cause cervical cell changes. These abnormal cells may progress to cancer over time. HPV types 16, 18 and 45 cause more than 70% of cervical cancers.

Pap Smear

Cervical cancer is the 10^th most common cancer among women in Singapore and can be prevented by screening with the Pap Smear. Early changes in the cervix can be seen long before a cancer develops and treating the cancer in this pre-cancerous stage can prevent cervix cancer from occurring.

Colposcopy

When a pap smear suggests that there are some pre-cancer cells, your specialist may suggest a colposcopy examination. This involves an instrument with a magnifying glass through which a better view of the cervix can be obtained.

Cone Biopsy

A cone biopsy is a minor surgical procedure. It involves the removal of a cylindrical or cone-shaped piece of the cervix in which the abnormal cells are located. Pathological examination will then confirm the diagnosis and ensure that all the abnormal cells have been removed.

Laser Treatment

Laser surgery is a safe and effective method available for various gynaecological conditions of the vulva, vagina and cervix. The laser produces a beam of intense light not visible to the eye. This beam is directed by the surgeon on the affected area as he views the area through an operating microscope. The laser beam instantly evaporates diseased cells while causing little or no damage to the surrounding healthy tissues.

Treatment

The Centre's medical expertise employs a multidisciplinary approach to treatment which includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery, and the latest in medical innovations to deliver the best clinical outcome possible. The centre's aim is to enable patients to pursue their family, work and leisure activities as normally as possible.

Our Clinics:

• Gynaecological Cancer Clinic
• Colposcopy and Dysplasia Clinic
• Vulvar Clinic
• Chemotherapy Clinic
• Radiotherapy Clinic
• Lymphoedema Clinic
• Palliative Care Clinic
• Douching Clinic
• APAE Clinic

Range of Services:

• Gynaecological cancer screening and prevention
• Treatment of preinvasive diseases
• LEEP and laser surgery
• Cancer surgery
• Complex pelvic surgery
• Fertility Sparing Cancer Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Cancer Surgery
• Inpatient and outpatient cancer care
• Inpatient and outpatient chemotherapy
• Tumour Board Conference
• Cancer support group & befriender service
• Comprehensive cancer care including palliative care, psychological support, physiotherapy and dietetics services
  

KK Women's Cancer Support Group

Started in 1991 by nurses and allied health professionals, the Women's Cancer Support Group provides emotional and psychological support to gynaecological cancer patients and their families, through counselling and befriending services. It also actively organise social activities and public forum to create a platform for patients and their families to interact among each other to enhance their coping skills and create public awareness on gynaecology cancer.

The support group also consist of volunteers, some who had previously fought against cancer, would interact with patients to help them cope with their cancer diagnosis and treatment. They also befriend patients and their families, encouraging and supporting them by sharing about their own experience in battling cancer.

Education and Research

To achieve clinical leadership, the centre's has an active clinical trial portfolio focusing on the advancement in the prevention, control and cure of gynaecological cancers. The centre is also collaborating with other institution on chemotherapy clinical trials.

After a ten-year study (1998-2008) of women's cancer involving 4,000 patients focused on cancer of the cervix, uterus, ovary, vulva and vagina, it was found the centre's treatment has resulted in better outcomes. For example, the centre's treatment of uterine cancer had pushed up the five-year survival rate of a patient with Stage 2 cancer to a level almost comparable with Stage 1 cancer.

The centre also conducts regular workshops, conferences and public forums, including the Annual Colposcopy courses held with reputable international centres, attended by local and overseas delegates.