The Gynaecological Oncology Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) comprises experts including oncological surgeons, clinical and medical oncologists, expert radiologists and pathologists, clinical nurse specialists, and research nurses.  We look after people with or suspected of having gynecological cancer in Taunton and are the tertiary referral Gynaecological Cancer Centre for Somerset and parts of West Dorset.

The Gynaecological Oncology team participates in national and international trials and is actively involved in the NHS Improvements enhanced recovery after surgery and survivorship initiatives.

The gynaecological cancer surgeons are accredited sub-specialist gynaecological surgeons, and offer expert gynaecological cancer surgery, including minimally invasive approaches (keyhole or laparoscopic surgery), where appropriate.

We offer a variety of treatments for all cancers of the female genital tract (womb or endometrial, ovary, cervix, vagina and vulva) including surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.  Our aim is to provide the most appropriate treatment for the individual, aiming for quality of life after treatment.  In order to do this, we are closely supported by colleagues in colorectal surgery, urology, anaesthetics and palliative care.  Through the Beacon Centre, specialist psychological counselling is available for those with more specialist needs.

We are based in the GRACE Centre (Gynaecological Rapid Access and Colposcopy Examination Centre), which is within Musgrove Park Hospital, in the Old Building, next to the Breast Care Centre.  Here we are able to deliver dedicated care for people referred with a variety of issues, including abnormal cervical screening tests and those referred with symptoms concerning for gynaecological cancer in department.

The wider gynaecological oncology multi-disciplinary team (MDT) meets every Thursday to discuss, in confidence, patients with a suspected or confirmed diagnosis of a gynaecological cancer. The MDT meetings offer a forum for the team members to plan and agree recommended options for treatment, specific to individual patient needs. This approach ensures that all necessary investigations are carried out as quickly as possible and the best available treatment is offered.

The Gynaecological Oncology MDT links with all those engaged in gynaecological cancer care within Somerset via video-linked joint MDT meetings with colleagues in Yeovil and liaises with community and primary care teams.