Surgical oncology is one of the primary ways cancer is treated. CARTI’s fellowship-trained surgeons specialize in removing cancerous tumors and affected surrounding tissue. They work closely with medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists and other specialists to coordinate each patient’s care.
CARTI’s surgeons use traditional, minimally invasive and robotic-assisted approaches based on the needs of each patient. These techniques may offer smaller incisions, less pain and a faster recovery for appropriate procedures.
Many outpatient procedures are performed at CARTI Surgery Center, Arkansas’ first and only cancer-focused surgery center. Located adjacent to the CARTI Cancer Center Little Rock, our leading-edge facility is equipped with the latest surgical technologies, including the da Vinci robotic surgical system, which enhances precision in complex procedures and reduces recovery times for our patients. Click here for CARTI Surgery Center location information.
BREAST SURGICAL ONCOLOGY
Fellowship-trained breast oncologic surgeons, Dr. Eric Burdge, Dr. Jerri Fant and Dr. Yara Robertson provide evaluation and treatment for breast cancer, suspicious breast findings and select high-risk breast conditions.
Surgical options may include breast-conserving surgery, mastectomy, sentinel lymph node biopsy and other lymph node procedures. Our surgeons collaborate with CARTI’s breast imaging specialists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, genetics professionals and rehabilitation team members to develop an individualized treatment plan.
COMPLEX SURGICAL ONCOLOGY
Fellowship-trained complex surgical oncologist Dr. J. Camilo Barreto has extensive experience in the treatment of patients with complex cancers of the digestive tract, skin and soft tissues. His expertise includes large, difficult-to-reach or recurrent tumors that may involve surrounding organs or require coordination among multiple specialties.
Treatment may involve open, minimally invasive or robotic-assisted surgery based on the location and complexity of the tumor and the needs of the patient.
HEAD AND NECK SURGICAL ONCOLOGY AND MICROVASCULAR RECONSTRUCTION
Fellowship-trained head and neck oncologic surgeons Dr. Jake Brady and Dr. John Sims specialize in surgical management of both benign and cancerous tumors of the head and neck. Their expertise includes removal of tumors and advanced reconstruction to help preserve or restore appearance, speech, swallowing and other essential functions. Dr. Brady and Dr. Sims are two of only four head and neck surgeons in the state who can perform microvascular reconstructive surgery and transoral robotic surgery.
Head and neck surgical services include:
- Treatment of tumors involving the mouth, tongue, throat, voice box and surrounding structures
- Surgery for squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, melanoma and other skin cancers of the head and neck
- Thyroid, parathyroid and central neck surgery
- Treatment of tumors involving the parotid, submandibular and minor salivary glands
- Endoscopic and transoral robotic surgery for select oropharyngeal and sinonasal tumors
- Treatment of odontogenic tumors, premalignant lesions, persistent oral lesions and unexplained neck masses
- Local, regional and microvascular free-flap reconstruction
Procedures may include composite resection, mandibulectomy, glossectomy, laryngectomy, maxillectomy and neck dissection. Reconstructive care is also available for osteoradionecrosis, radiation-related tissue damage, trauma and complex defects involving the face, scalp or skull.
When a tumor involves the skull base, intracranial space, orbit or another highly specialized area, CARTI surgeons collaborate with neurosurgeons, oculoplastic surgeons and other specialists as appropriate.
COLLABORATION AND ACCESSIBILITY
While most procedures are performed at CARTI Surgery Center, some complex surgeries require inpatient hospitalization or additional resources and may be performed at a partner hospital where CARTI surgeons have privileges. Patients remain connected to their CARTI care team throughout treatment and recovery.
Our surgical oncologists also have privileges at Baptist Health Medical Center, extending our advanced cancer care capabilities. This collaboration ensures that patients have access to the most comprehensive cancer care available, whether at CARTI Surgery Center or in partnership with our trusted medical partners.
