Surgical oncology is a specialized branch of surgery focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of cancer through surgical procedures. It involves the removal of tumors, affected tissues, and sometimes nearby lymph nodes to help prevent the spread of cancer. Surgical oncologists also perform biopsies to confirm cancer diagnoses and may work alongside medical and radiation oncologists as part of a multidisciplinary care team. In many cases, surgery is combined with other treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation to improve outcomes. Surgical oncology plays a critical role in both curative and palliative cancer care.