Medical Oncology

The Medical Oncology department at the Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital focuses on the diagnosis and systemic treatment of cancer through expert assessment, which enables the most appropriate treatment strategy to be determined for each individual case.

Modern oncology requires the integration of multiple treatment options and their adaptation to the type of tumour, its biological characteristics and the clinical situation of each patient. In this context, medical oncology plays a central role in treatment planning, the selection of different therapies and clinical follow-up throughout the course of the disease.

The aim is not merely to administer treatment, but to establish a comprehensive and individualised treatment plan, based on scientific evidence and continuously reviewed in line with clinical progress and the response achieved.

When is a medical oncology assessment recommended?

A medical oncology assessment is indicated for people with a confirmed diagnosis of cancer, as well as in cases where it is necessary to determine the treatment following the initial investigation or to reconsider the strategy in light of changes in the course of the disease.

For many patients, the complexity lies not only in confirming the diagnosis, but also in deciding which treatment is appropriate, when it should be started and how it should be adapted over time. This decision-making process requires a broad clinical perspective, specific expertise and rigorous planning.

The incorporation of biomarkers and increasingly precise therapies makes an expert assessment particularly important from the earliest stages of the cancer care process.

A care model based on therapeutic strategy and personalised medicine

The approach to cancer begins with a detailed clinical assessment that incorporates histological diagnosis, imaging tests and an analysis of the tumour’s biological and molecular characteristics. This information provides a better understanding of the disease’s behaviour and enables more precise guidance for therapeutic decisions.

Based on this analysis, a personalised strategy is defined, selecting and sequencing the various available options, such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy or targeted therapies. Treatment is not viewed as an isolated intervention, but as a dynamic process that may require adjustments depending on each stage of the disease.

This approach allows the treatment plan to be adapted to the patient’s clinical progression and response, with the aim of achieving the best possible outcome at every stage of the care process.

Specialised units for a more targeted approach to cancer

With the aim of providing more specialised care tailored to each type of tumour, the department is organised into distinct clinical units, which enable us to deepen our understanding of and treatment for specific groups of oncological conditions.

Digestive Tumour Unit

Focused on the treatment of cancers of the digestive system, including colorectal, gastric, pancreatic, liver and bile duct cancers, where the treatment strategy typically involves a sequence and combination of different treatments throughout the clinical course.

Thoracic Tumours Unit

Focused on the management of tumours in the thoracic region, primarily lung cancer, as well as tumours of the pleura and mediastinum, with particular emphasis on the molecular characterisation of the tumour and the selection of targeted therapies and immunotherapy.

Gynaecological Tumours Unit

Focused on the medical treatment of tumours affecting the female reproductive system, including the ovaries, endometrium, cervix, vulva and vagina.

The approach is based on an individualised treatment plan that integrates systemic treatments and multidisciplinary coordination, taking into account the biological characteristics of the tumour and the clinical situation of each patient.

Urological Tumours Unit

Specialising in tumours of the urinary tract and the male reproductive system, such as the prostate, bladder, kidney or testicles, where treatment is tailored to the individual and may require different therapeutic strategies as the disease progresses.

Head and Neck Tumours Unit

Specialising in the management of tumours affecting the oral cavity, oropharynx, larynx, hypopharynx or salivary glands, where treatment planning requires balancing disease control with the preservation of essential functions.

Personalised treatment

Treatment is tailored to each individual, taking into account the type of tumour, its molecular profile, the extent of the disease and the patient’s clinical condition.

Treatment options include chemotherapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapies, selected on the basis of current scientific evidence and the specific characteristics of each case. For certain tumours, the use of biomarkers allows for better guidance in treatment selection and optimises the effectiveness of the treatment.

Clinical follow-up and continuity of care

Follow-up is an essential part of the cancer care process. It enables us to assess the response to treatment, detect changes in the progression of the disease and redefine the treatment strategy when necessary.

Follow-up appointments are organised on an individual basis and ensure continuity of care throughout the entire clinical process, whilst also facilitating coordination with the various specialities involved in the patient’s care.

Support and guidance throughout the process

A cancer diagnosis often involves complex decisions that require time, clinical judgement and a clear understanding of the various treatment options.

From the very first consultation, we take the time needed to explain the clinical situation, the significance of the tests, the treatment options and the expected course of the condition in each individual case. The information is tailored to each patient’s needs, with the aim of facilitating a genuine understanding of the process and helping them make decisions with greater confidence.

Support is provided throughout the entire care journey, with close and ongoing communication that enables patients to resolve any doubts, anticipate decisions and approach treatment with greater confidence.