Localized recurrence
The tumor has recurred locally without evidence of distant disease (metastasis) or with resectable metastases.
Specialized Surgery
Oncological Salvage Surgery
Specialized surgical treatment for local tumor recurrences. When cancer returns, we offer salvage options with curative intent through highly complex surgery.
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EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE +20,000 surgeries performed
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What is salvage surgery?
Salvage surgery is a surgical procedure performed when a tumor recurs in the same location where it was previously treated. The goal is to offer a second chance at cure through complete removal of the recurrent tumor.
This type of surgery requires a high degree of specialization, as it operates in a previously intervened surgical field, often with anatomical changes from previous surgeries, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy. Careful planning and team experience are fundamental.
When is salvage surgery indicated?
Salvage surgery may be an option when certain conditions are met:
Technical resectability
It is possible to completely remove the tumor with clear margins, even if extensive or multivisceral resections are required.
Adequate general condition
The patient has a physical condition that allows tolerating complex surgery with good expected functional outcomes.
Prolonged disease-free interval
Sufficient time has elapsed since initial treatment, suggesting less aggressive tumor biology.
Types of salvage surgery
We perform various salvage procedures depending on the location of recurrence:
Pelvic exenteration
Radical surgery for pelvic recurrences of rectal, gynecological, or urological cancer, with en bloc resection of affected organs.
Colorectal recurrence resection
Re-resection of anastomosis or surgical bed in colorectal cancer recurrences, including sacral resections.
Abdominal wall surgery
Resection of tumor implants in the abdominal wall with reconstruction using meshes and component separation techniques.
Multivisceral resections
En bloc removal of recurrence along with adjacent infiltrated organs to achieve adequate oncological margins.
Challenges of salvage surgery
Salvage surgery presents specific challenges requiring experience and specialized resources:
Fibrosis and adhesions
Previous surgeries and treatments generate scar tissue that makes identification of surgical planes and anatomical structures difficult.
Radiotherapy effects
Previous radiotherapy can compromise tissue vascularization and healing, increasing the risk of complications.
Altered anatomy
Previous resections modify normal anatomy, requiring deep knowledge of post-surgical variants.
Complex reconstruction
Sophisticated reconstruction techniques are often required including musculocutaneous flaps and urinary or digestive diversions.
Our experience in salvage surgery
At Quenet-Torrent Institute we have developed extensive experience in oncological salvage surgery. Our multidisciplinary team evaluates each case individually to determine surgical viability and plan the optimal strategy.
We have the most advanced technology, including robotic surgery and intraoperative imaging techniques, allowing us to approach complex cases with maximum precision and patient safety.
Pathologies that may require salvage surgery
Salvage surgery is applied in recurrences of various oncological pathologies.
Colorectal tumors
Local recurrences of colon and rectal cancer.
More informationGynecological tumors
Pelvic recurrences of cervical, endometrial, and ovarian cancer.
More informationSarcomas
Local recurrences of retroperitoneal and abdominal wall sarcomas.
More information
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