What does it mean to debulk a tumor?

Debulking a tumor means removing some, but not all, of it. This is used when removing the entire tumor might damage an organ or the body.

Even though it does not remove the whole tumor, debulking can help other treatments—such as chemotherapy or radiation—work better.

Surgery can also be used to remove an entire tumor when the cancer is contained in one area, or to ease symptoms by relieving pain or pressure. Your care team can explain the goal of surgery in your plan.