Dr. Nitya Nutan Misra

Surgical Oncologist

Patient Guide

What to Expect Before, During & After Cancer Surgery: A Patient Guide

Dr. Nitya Nutan Misra5 May 20248 min read

Undergoing cancer surgery can be overwhelming. This practical guide helps you understand the process, prepare effectively, and recover confidently.

Being told you need cancer surgery brings fear and uncertainty. Understanding what to expect can significantly reduce anxiety and help you recover better.

Before Surgery

Medical Evaluation: You will undergo a series of tests — blood work, imaging, cardiac evaluation, and anaesthesia assessment. These ensure you are fit for surgery.

Tumour Board Review: At AHPGIC, your case is reviewed by a multidisciplinary team before surgery to confirm the operative plan.

Counselling: Dr. Misra will explain the exact procedure, what will be removed, expected outcomes, risks, and alternatives. Please ask all questions — there are no small concerns.

Preparation: Follow fasting instructions (typically nil by mouth 6–8 hours before surgery). Arrange for a responsible adult caregiver to be present.

The Day of Surgery

  • Arrive at the designated time
  • You will be prepared by the nursing team
  • A member of the anaesthesia team will meet you
  • Before entering the operating theatre, the surgical team will verify your identity, consent, and surgical site

During Surgery

You will be under general anaesthesia and fully unconscious. The procedure typically lasts between 2–8 hours depending on complexity. Dr. Misra andhisteam work meticulously to achieve complete tumour removal.

After Surgery

Immediate Recovery: You will wake up in the recovery room with monitoring equipment. Pain management is prioritised.

Hospital Stay: Duration varies by procedure — from 3 days for simpler surgeries to 2 weeks for complex operations.

Wound Care: Instructions will be given for wound dressing and activity restrictions.

Histopathology Report: Within 7–10 days, your tumour sample is analysed. This report determines staging and the need for further treatment.

Follow-up: Regular outpatient appointments with Dr. Misra will monitor healing, manage any side effects, and plan adjuvant therapy if needed.

Remember

You are not alone in this journey. Our entire team at AHPGIC is dedicated to supporting you through every step of your cancer treatment.

cancer surgery guidepatient informationsurgical oncologyrecovery
NM

Dr. Nitya Nutan Misra

Surgical Oncologist · AHPGIC, Cuttack

Dr. Misra writes to educate patients and families about cancer — empowering them with knowledge that supports early detection and informed treatment decisions.

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