Surgery. Dr. Pearl performs many types of surgery to treat gynecologic conditions. These include complex surgeries involving the pelvis, digestive system, urinary system, and reconstructive surgery. These procedures help treat both early and advanced gynecologic diseases, as well as some complicated conditions.
In 2010, Dr. Pearl performed 293 surgeries, including 218 major procedures and 75 minor procedures.
Before surgery, patients and their families receive easy‑to‑understand educational materials. Books and videos are also available to help patients learn more about the
Chemotherapy. The Division of Gynecologic Oncology has extensive experience administering intravenous, oral, and intraperitoneal chemotherapy. In 2010, the Division administered 400 chemotherapy cycles. The multidisciplinary team includes physicians, a clinical pharmacist, a physician assistant, and chemotherapy-certified nurses.
Radiation. The Gynecologic Oncology Management Team works closely with the Department of Radiation Oncology to develop treatment plans and place brachytherapy devices.
Research. The Gynecologic Oncology team takes part in both patient‑based and laboratory research. Dr. Pearl is the lead researcher for the Gynecologic Oncology Group, a national research program supported by the National Institutes of Health. This program helps patients access new and advanced cancer treatments. At any time, about 25 chemotherapy research studies are available for women with different types of gynecologic cancers. In 2010, 55 patients took part in Gynecologic Oncology Group studies. The team also works closely with scientists from other departments.
With Dr. Wen‑Tien Chen in Medical Oncology, researchers are studying new ways to find ovarian cancer cells in blood and abdominal fluid. They also work to identify early signs of ovarian cancer using advanced DNA testing.
With Dr. Margaret McNurlan in the Department of Surgery, researchers study how inflammation and obesity may affect body function and increase the risk of endometrial cancer.
In 2010, nearly 50 patients participated in internal research studies, and 118 patients contributed samples to the Tumor Bank to support future research.
Education. The Division of Gynecologic Oncology provides didactic and clinical education for medical students, resident physicians, nurses, and physician assistant students in the Hospital and ambulatory settings. By participating in local, regional, national, and international Grand Rounds, the members of the Division provide continuing medical education (CME) for physicians in many specialties. They also provide valuable information to the community on prevention, diagnosis, and management of gynecologic cancers through a range of support groups and lecture series.