Can Cancer Spread During Surgery or Biopsy?

Surgery or biopsy can potentially spread cancer in certain rare cases, although it is not a common occurrence. Despite the chemotherapy and radiation I underwent before stabilizing my stage 3 small cell lung cancer, the knowledge of whether the cancer can spread during these procedures is essential for making the right treatment decisions.

The Dual Role of Surgery and Biopsy

Surgery or biopsy alone does not necessarily lead to the spread of cancer, but in rare instances, it can happen. The first question that arises is why one might undergo chemotherapy and radiation before surgery. This approach is often used to stabilize the tumor and improve the chances of successful surgical intervention when dealing with advanced cancer stages, such as stage 3 small cell lung cancer.

Risk vs. Benefit of Biopsy

While it is crucial to determine the type of cancer before deciding on the best course of treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation), a biopsy is not always necessary. The decision depends on the type of cancer and the specific circumstances. For instance, in cases like testicular cancer, where the cancer is less likely to spread to other parts of the body, a biopsy is rarely performed due to the diagnostic capabilities of ultrasound and the systemic independence of the scrotum and testicle.

How Biopsy Can Potentially Spur Cancer Growth

There is a theoretical risk that a biopsy or surgery can cause cancer to spread. The potential mechanism for this could be the introduction of stray cancer cells during the procedure. For example, a needle used during a biopsy could leave cancer cells behind as it is removed. This risk is higher if the procedure involves the breaking of the tissue barrier, which could lead to the spread of cancer cells to nearby tissues or even to distant sites if the tumor has already metastasized.

Precautionary Measures and Alternatives

Despite this theoretical risk, medical professionals typically take extra steps to minimize the chances of cancer spreading during biopsies or surgeries. These measures include sterile techniques, precise surgical tools, and careful handling of biopsy samples to avoid introducing any stray cells.

However, as someone who has experienced the complexities of cancer treatment, it is essential to understand that the decision to undergo a biopsy is not taken lightly. There is often a delicate balance between the potential benefits of diagnosing and treating the cancer and the theoretical risks associated with invasive procedures.

It is also important to note that if the cancer has already spread, the timing of the biopsy (before or after) does not significantly impact the overall prognosis. The primary focus remains on treating the existing tumor and managing the spread of the cancer, rather than preventing it from spreading further through invasive procedures.

In conclusion, while the spread of cancer during surgery or biopsy is a rare occurrence, it is a risk that must be considered when making treatment decisions. Understanding these risks and the potential benefits of different approaches can help in making more informed choices and better management of cancer.