Expert gynecologic cancer care, close to home
Our trusted team has been caring for women in Pennsylvania communities for years — and we’ll treat you like family, every step of the way.
Your personal care team
Stay with the same team of gynecologic cancer specialists all throughout your care.
Specialized treatment
Our multidisciplinary team is devoted specifically to helping women overcome gynecologic cancer.
Integrated research
Our doctors stay on the cutting edge of cancer research — because they’re part of it.
Gynecologic oncology at Geisinger — where you come first
A gynecologic oncology diagnosis can feel overwhelming — but here, you’re never alone. Our experienced team specializes in treating cancerous and benign conditions of the female reproductive system. We offer expert surgical care and whole-person support to help you feel confident and cared for every step of the way.
Our program has deep roots in the community and a longstanding reputation for trusted care. You’ll benefit from a multidisciplinary team that works closely together (including specialists in hematology, radiation oncology, pathology and more) to design a personalized treatment plan built around you. From diagnosis through recovery, we guide your care with skill and compassion.
What is gynecologic oncology?
Gynecologic cancer occurs when abnormal cells form in a woman’s reproductive organs, including her vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.
Gynecologic oncologists are specialized experts who have completed a full OB-GYN residency followed by an additional 3 to 4 years of fellowship training in gynecologic oncology. We’re not just surgeons — we lead your care like the captain of a ship, performing surgery and coordinating other treatments so you’ll receive the most effective, personalized care possible.
What to know about gynecologic cancer prevention
All women are at risk for gynecologic cancer, but there are ways to lower that risk. Getting the HPV vaccine, staying up to date on Pap smears and genetic testing (if you have a family history of cancer) can help with early detection and prevention. It's also important to seek care for irregular bleeding, any bleeding after menopause or changes to the skin of the vulva. Healthy habits like eating well and staying active can also help reduce your risk.
Gynecologic cancer treatment
Gynecologic cancer occurs when abnormal cells form in a woman’s reproductive organs. We treat a wide range of gynecologic cancers, including:
- Endometrial and other uterine cancers – The most common gynecologic cancer, starting in the uterine lining.
- Ovarian cancer and cancers that start in the fallopian tubes or peritoneum – Often diagnosed at later stages; requires expert surgical and medical care.
- Cervical cancer – Often caused by HPV, this begins in the cervix and is highly treatable when caught early.
- Vulvar and vaginal cancer – Cancer affecting the outer area of the female genitals (vulva) or cancer that starts in the vaginal canal.
- Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia – A rare condition linked to pregnancy tissue, usually highly treatable.
Many gynecologic cancers are treatable and even curable — especially when caught early. At Geisinger, your care plan is built around evidence-based treatments, delivered in a supportive environment by a team that knows you and your diagnosis. We’re here to guide you through every option.
Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include:
- Surgery – Often the first and most effective step in curing many gynecologic cancers. Our gynecologic oncologists are highly skilled in advanced, minimally-invasive surgical techniques, as well as radical open surgery when that treats cancer best.
- Chemotherapy – Uses medications to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing.
- Radiation therapy – Destroys cancer cells using targeted energy. We offer advanced options like IMRT, 3-D CRT and brachytherapy.
- Immunotherapy and targeted therapy – Stimulates your immune system or targets specific mutations in cancer cells to help your body fight cancer in new ways.
- Clinical trials – Gain access to new, innovative treatments not yet widely available.
- Palliative care – Focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life at any stage of illness.
Together, we’ll choose the path that offers the best chance for healing and walk it with you every step of the way.
Surgical care and specialized procedures, including:
- Radical cytoreductive (“debulking”) surgery for advanced gynecologic cancers
- Hysterectomy (simple and radical)
- Salpingo-oophorectomy
- Minimally invasive surgery, including robotic surgery using the da Vinci® Surgery System
- Sentinel lymph node mapping for endometrial, cervical and vulvar cancers
- Pelvic, para-aortic and inguinal lymph node dissection
- Cervical loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP)
- Cold knife conization
- Pelvic exenteration
- Bowel and urinary tract resection, diversion and reconstruction
- Vaginectomy
- Vesico-vaginal and recto-vaginal fistula repair
- Vulvectomy
High cancer risk
- Consultation for risk reduction for hereditary cancer syndromes (e.g., BRCA, Lynch)
- Treatment of high-grade gynecologic pre-cancers, including vulvar, vaginal, cervical and uterine dysplasia
Additional support
- Surgery for benign gynecologic disease in patients with prior abdominal surgery or complex medical conditions
- Access to clinical trials
- Surveillance and survivorship care
- Inclusive care for LGBTQ individuals
- Telemedicine for appropriate visits
Meet our gynecologic oncology team
You’re in expert hands. Our skilled team includes gynecologic oncologists and physician assistants who specialize in the surgical and medical treatment of gynecologic cancers. With years of experience and a collaborative approach, we care for every patient like family.
Scott C. Purinton, MD, PhD
"Dr. Purinton answered all of my questions and made me feel at ease about the whole process. He discussed my options which prior to this visit I didn't think I had any. I left the visit feeling confident about my next steps."
Benjamin Matthews, MD
"I can't tell you how thankful I am that Dr. Matthews is a doctor at Geisinger. His care and compassion during one of the most difficult times in our family's life is beyond appreciated."
Sarah Podwika, MD, MPH
"I felt at ease as soon as Dr. Sarah Podwika walked into the room. She exhibited a kindly, compassionate, concerned and professional presence. She did not rush through the appointment, but took enough time to explain my situation. I felt confident in her assessment of my issues."
Shannon T. Borissov, PA-C
"Shannon is an excellent medical provider. She handles a patient's uncomfortable situation extremely well. Would definitely recommend her to others."
Chaela Michael, PA-C
"This was my second appointment with Chaela Michael. I have already recommended her to others. She is very knowledgeable and compassionate. In addition, she has a calm manner which is needed when discussing scary topics like cancer."
Where you’ll find us
Our gynecologic oncology services are available at:
- Geisinger Medical Center – 100 N. Academy Ave., Danville
- Geisinger Medical Center Muncy – 255 U.S. Route 220, Muncy
- Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center – 1000 East Mountain Blvd., Wilkes-Barre
Ready to talk to a specialist?
Call us at 800-275-6401 or request a consultation online. Our care team will reach out to walk you through your next steps.