• Hyperthermia , a technique using radiation therapy and heat, is also being studied.
Stage IIIa or IIIb
Stage III is defined as a carcinoma that extends to the pelvic sidewall, involves the lower third of the vagina or obstructs one or both ureters. Stage IIIa means there is no extension to the pelvic sidewall, but the tumor involves the lower third of the vagina. In Stage IIIb, there is extension to the pelvic sidewall, obstruction of one or both ureters, or there is a non-functioning kidney.
Standard Treatment External beam radiation therapy followed by one or two insertions of intracavitary cesium.
Five-Year Survival 40 percent
Investigational Same as for Stage IIb.
Stage IVa
Stage IV is defined as cancer that has spread to distant organs beyond the true pelvis or involves the lining of the bladder or rectum. Stage IVa means that a biopsy has shown that either the lining of the bladder or the rectum have become involved.
