Gynecologic Oncology, Right Here in Lincoln

Dr. Peter Morris, of Cancer Partners of Nebraska, is a gynecologic oncology surgeon specifically trained in the surgical and medical treatment of cancers that involve the uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, ovaries, vagina and vulvar area.

One of his first patients in Lincoln was a woman facing the diagnosis of endometrial cancer, which is cancer in the lining of the uterus.

Mary told her gynecologist about her post-menopause spotting. She had a biopsy that indicated cancerous cells, then her doctor referred her to Dr. Morris.

Mary saw Dr. Morris at Cancer Partners within 24 hours of meeting with her gynecologist. Dr. Morris assured Mary that they caught it early, which provides the best possible outcome. Soon after, Mary had a robotic-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy performed by Dr. Morris at Bryan Medical Center. After the pathology results came back, he recommended a few rounds of radiation therapy to destroy any residual cancer cells.

Mary had questions about what would happen before and after her hysterectomy and treatment. She met with Laura Korbelik, MOTR/L, CLT, a Cancer Partners occupational therapist, for guidance and to discuss her individual treatment plan.

Laura meets with patients like Mary for pre-operative assessment of their posture, pelvic floor range of motion, prior pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms, nutrition education and fascial assessment for restrictions. She also provides education about signs of lymphedema when inguinal nodes are removed.

A few months after her surgery, Mary’s scans show she is now cancer free. It’s a road she didn’t think she would ever have to travel, but she is happy to get the best cancer care, close to home.

“ I found an extraordinary village when I experienced cancer. A forest of friends, family and health care workers that held me up through powerful winds and floods . . . loved me when I was thoroughly unlovable . . . and delivered sustenance and faith to my door.

– Mary, endometrial cancer patient “

Pelvic Floor Therapy

Some cancer treatments may contribute to pelvic floor dysfunctions such as incontinence, sexual pain, anatomic alteration, myofascial pain and pelvic organ changes. Pelvic floor therapy by a specially trained occupational therapist can help. Typical treatments and techniques for pelvic floor therapy:

• Manual therapy – Massage or stretching to help reduce fascial restrictions, improve posture, blood circulation and mobility

• Education – About pelvic anatomy, function and strategies to reduce symptoms

• Biofeedback – A tool to help patients “see” how the pelvic floor muscles are working

• Exercises – Includes stretches to lengthen and strengthen the pelvic floor, plus helping improve posture of the pelvic girdle and pelvic floor

• Vaginal/rectal dilators – Can be used to prevent stenosis.

• Prostate recovery – Minimize the risk of side effects of treatment including bladder control, sexual function, incontinence and bowel habits

Pelvic floor therapy is offered at Crete Area Medical Center and Cancer Partners of Nebraska, which will move to the April Sampson Cancer Center.

Find out more at: cancerpartners.com/care/rehab/pelvic-floor