Large tumors
Bulky tumors requiring en bloc extraction that cannot be safely managed laparoscopically or robotically.
Reviewed by Dr. Juan José Torrent — Updated: April 30, 2026
High Complexity Surgery
Oncological Open Surgery
Open surgery remains fundamental in oncology for large tumors or those requiring extensive resections. We combine experience and technique to achieve the best oncological outcomes.
CONTACT SPECIALISTWhat is oncological open surgery?
Open surgery is the traditional surgical approach in which a wide incision is made to directly access the area to be operated. Despite advances in minimally invasive techniques, it remains the technique of choice in many complex oncological cases.
It allows optimal exposure of the surgical field, facilitating extensive resections, complex reconstructions, and control of major vascular structures. It is especially indicated for large tumors or those affecting multiple organs.
When is open surgery indicated?
Open surgery is the preferred technique in certain situations:
Multivisceral resections
Surgeries involving en bloc removal of multiple organs to ensure adequate oncological margins.
Major vascular involvement
Tumors infiltrating large blood vessels requiring vascular resection and reconstruction.
Salvage surgery
Reoperations in previously operated surgical fields with significant fibrosis and anatomical distortion.
Types of approach in open surgery
We select the most appropriate incision based on tumor location and extent:
Midline laparotomy
Vertical incision from the sternum to the pubis providing access to the entire abdominal cavity.
Subcostal incision
Incision below the ribs, unilateral or bilateral, ideal for hepatic, gastric, and pancreatic surgery.
Thoracoabdominal incision
Combined thoracic and abdominal approach for tumors of the esophagogastric junction or with diaphragmatic extension.
Combined incisions
Combination of incisions adapted to the specific needs of each case to optimize exposure.
Advantages of open surgery
Open surgery offers specific benefits in complex oncological cases:
Complete direct vision
Allows direct palpation of tissues and complete visualization of the operative field without optical limitations.
Immediate vascular control
Rapid response capability to bleeding and direct control of major vascular structures.
Technical flexibility
Allows real-time modification of surgical strategy based on intraoperative findings.
Complex reconstructions
Facilitates anastomoses, vascular grafts, and reconstruction techniques requiring extensive tissue manipulation.
Our experience in open surgery
At Quenet-Torrent Institute open surgery remains a fundamental tool in our therapeutic arsenal. Our surgeons have extensive training and experience in high complexity oncological open surgery techniques.
We select the most appropriate approach for each patient, always prioritizing oncological outcomes. In many complex cases, open surgery continues to offer the best results and greatest safety for the patient.
Pathologies treated with open surgery
Open surgery is frequently used in the treatment of various oncological pathologies.
Esophagogastric tumors
Esophagectomies and total gastrectomies for advanced tumors.
More informationSarcomas
Resection of large retroperitoneal sarcomas.
More informationPeritoneal carcinomatosis
Complete cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC.
More information
Real cases
Patient testimonies and surgery explanations
Real testimonies from patients treated by our team in high-complexity surgical oncology.
Debra's case
66-year-old English woman with advanced ovarian cancer and peritoneal metastases. Treated with cytoreduction + HIPEC, she is now disease-free.
Read the full caseRosario (Charo)'s case
73-year-old patient with advanced cancer treated with chemotherapy and high-complexity surgical oncology. Excellent survival and quality of life.
Read the full caseLaura's case
Rare abdominal tumor treated with complex cytoreductive surgery plus HIPEC and systemic chemotherapy. Disease-free after almost 2 years.
Read the full caseSantiago's case
Diagnosed with widespread peritoneal carcinomatosis and considered inoperable. After complete cytoreduction with HIPEC, today his is a story of hope and survival.
Read the full case
Verified reviews
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★★★★★
What our patients say
L
4 weeks ago
★★★★★
Wonderful surgical team, among the best out there. Dr. Torrent (expert in peritoneal carcinomatosis) is an exceptional surgeon and an even better person. His coordinator is super kind, fast and efficient. The human treatment is great and the results are too. This is of vital importance for cancer patients.
K
5 months ago
★★★★★
In the public healthcare system they gave my father a maximum of one year to live. They only offered him chemo and no hope, said it was impossible, that nothing could be done. He had several tumors inside the peritoneal sac with metastases. A year and a half later he is clean, completely cured. His latest PET scan came back clean. We are very happy. Thanks to Dr. Torrent and his team. THANK YOU.
M
A year ago
★★★★★
Excellent professionals, especially Dr. Torrent, attentive at all times to the patient (my wife), operated for peritoneal pseudomyxoma. They helped us with all our needs since we came from outside Barcelona. Thank you Elisabeth. We are very grateful to Quenet Torrent Institute, thank you for everything.
P
2 years ago
★★★★★
I am a 63-year-old patient. They detected adrenal gland cancer and told me there was nothing to be done. I sought a second opinion and they told me about the Quenet Torrent team, specialists in complex operations. Dr. Torrent, from the first moment, told me they could operate. They operated and removed a large tumor mass. I spent a week in the ICU and a month on the ward. Every day he came morning and evening, no matter Saturday or Sunday. Never throw in the towel. I am happy to have found these professionals who gave me my life back. Thank you.
I
3 years ago
★★★★★
Many thanks for your attention. Dr. Torrent always attentive, involved and decisive. The reception staff very pleasant and always offering the best option. 100% RECOMMENDED. THANK YOU.
M
5 years ago
★★★★★
Dr. Torrent helped me make the best decision at a difficult moment. I think he is a great professional and a person capable of accompanying you and putting himself in another's shoes. Thank you for everything.
F
6 years ago
★★★★★
I have peritoneal carcinomatosis. Sending my diagnosis to every center, practically all agreed on palliative chemo with little survival time since I had very aggressive cell types. Until we reached Dr. Quenet, Dr. Torrent and their team. I can only confirm what their CV announces: they are far ahead of the rest. They saved my life — at surgery the harmful cells everyone diagnosed (and used to refuse to operate) were not there. This intervention has become the best investment of my life.
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