Institute for Women’s Health

Renowned GYN Cancer Diagnosis & Treatment in Southern California

The Institute for Women’s Health is an integral part of USC Women’s Health, which is known for its commitment to providing comprehensive and specialized care for women. Our approach not only focuses on treating complex medical issues but also prioritizes the overall well-being of our patients. At USC Arcadia Hospital, we understand that facing a diagnosis of gynecological cancer can be challenging, and we ensure that patients receive compassionate care from a highly skilled medical team in a relaxed atmosphere. You are not alone on this journey; we are here to support you every step of the way.

The institute is led by Medical Director Alan Schlaerth, MD. Dr. Schlaerth is an accomplished oncologist with more than 25 years of experience. He has a proven track record of effective treatment and outstanding patient care. Dr. Schlaerth and his dedicated, compassionate team support and guide patients through this difficult time and gives them the best treatments possible.

Gynecologic Surgeries

When cancer is found before it has a chance to spread (metastasize), an oncologist will often recommend surgery to remove the tumor and destroy cancer cells. There are numerous operations that may be used depending on the type of cancer:

• Ovarian Cancer Surgery – Ovarian cancer surgeries include hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and omentectomy. These operations involve the removal of various reproductive organs and may impact fertility. Your doctor will discuss this with you before the operation and discuss ways to preserve fertility if possible, provided that is a concern for you. Ovarian cancer surgery may be performed even after cancer has spread as removing the bulk of the tumor has been shown to increase survival rates.
• Cervical Cancer Surgery – If found in the very early stages when it has only affected the surface of the cervix, cervical cancer can be treated with minimally invasive treatments. These include cryosurgery to freeze the cancer cells, and laser surgery to zap the cells with intense light. If cancer has spread to deeper layers of the surgery, a total, partial, or vaginal hysterectomy may be required. Removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries (bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy) is another possible treatment.
• Endometrial Cancer Surgery – Endometrial cancer is almost always treated with surgery. Possible procedures include hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and lymph node removal.

After surgery you will be kept for observation for several hours, an overnight stay may or may not be required. If your operation involved the removal of ovaries then menopause will begin. The doctor can help you manage these symptoms.

We Are Here for You

Cancer and its treatment can be strenuous both emotionally and physically. Our team is here to help you however we can. We offer our patients access to support groups, counseling, and pain management services. Though treating cancer is a major accomplishment, we do not shut the door on our patients when it’s finished.

The Institute for Women’s Health is located at 300 W. Huntington Drive in Arcadia at the south end of the hospital campus. You can reach us by phone at 626-898-8198.