Ovarian Cancer Treatment Options in Germany

Ovarian cancer is the eighth most common cancer among women, with approximately 324,603 new cases just in 2022 alone. It represents a global health concern with over 206,000 related deaths [1]. Thanks to the fact that the disease often presents with general symptoms, there are many cases diagnosed in the later stages. The five-year survival rates range from 36% to 46% [2].

In Germany, ovarian cancer also represents a serious issue, with nearly 7,500 new cases each year [1]. The county's advanced healthcare system is investing in the early detection and development of advanced treatment options. This helped to increase the relative five-year survival rate of approximately 44%. And when the tumor is diagnosed at an early stage, the five-year survival rate can reach up to 90% [3].

That is why Germany can be called a leader in providing modern cancer care and commitment to advanced international protocols. They evaluate each patient's case with the multidisciplinary team and develop a personalized treatment plan that includes the most modern therapies available. If you seek cancer care in Germany, you will get a great mix of modern medical protocols and empathetic care.

What Is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer develops in the ovaries and can be named a "silent mirror", because the early symptoms are often non-specific. This leads to late diagnostics when cancer is already in the advanced stage [4].

Types of Ovarian Cancer

These tumors differ in the type of cells. The first type is epithelial cancer, which starts from the cells that cover the surface of the ovaries and accounts for nearly 90% of all ovarian cancers [5, 6]. There are a few subtypes of epithelial cancer:

• High-grade serous carcinoma,which is the most common and aggressive form
• Low-grade serous carcinoma,a slow-growing type
• Endometrioid carcinoma,which can originate from endometriosis cells
• Clear cell carcinomais also linked to endometriosis and has a low response to chemotherapy
• Mucinous carcinomais a rare type that can be diagnosed early

The second type is the germ cell tumors, which take their start from the reproductive cells themselves and make up about 2% of all ovarian cancers [6]. They often develop in young women and differentiate into dysgerminomas and yolk sac tumors [5, 6].

The third type is called sex cord-stromal tumors, such as granulosa cell tumors and Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors [5-7]. They originate from the connective tissue in the ovaries and can produce hormones.

Stages of Ovarian Cancer

The staging of ovarian cancer is as follows:

• Stage I: The tumor is found in one or both ovaries only.
• Stage II: The cancer has spread to the pelvic organs, such as the uterus, fallopian tubes, bladder, and rectum.
• Stage III: The cancer had spread either to the abdominal cavity or the lymph nodes.
• Stage IV: Cancer has metastasized to other parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs.

If ovarian cancer is detected early, the survival rates can be greatly improved. The 5-year survival rate is approximately 89% for stage I diagnosis and around 71% for stage II. But, due to the fact that ovarian cancer often does not cause any symptoms early in the course of the disease, the 75% of women are diagnosed at later stages. For stage III, survival rates fall up to 40%, and for stage IV, they are about 20% [6, 8].

Unfortunately, there are no screening programs for women to detect ovarian cancer early, which is why it is important to notice symptoms and signs like ongoing bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, and any changes in your urinary habits and discuss them with your physician.

Why Choose Germany for Ovarian Cancer Treatment?

When looking for the best treatment options for ovarian cancer patients often seek high medical standards and personalized care. Germany’s healthcare system is a perfect combination of both. Some of the advantages of cancer treatment in Germany are:

• Quality controlHospitals in Germany are strictly regulated regarding medical care and patient outcomes, and are certified and supervised by organizations such as the German Cancer Society.
• Modern technologiesThe hospitals are equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment instruments, such as PET scanners for imaging and robotic surgical systems that enable minimally invasive procedures.
• Experienced medical staffGerman healthcare centers have experienced oncologists and gynecologic oncology departments that focus on the latest care.
• Access to researchMany hospitals work closely with universities that offer access to scientific programs. This enables patients in Germany to receive innovative ovarian cancer therapies, such as dendritic cell immunotherapy.
• Personalized approachGerman centers prioritize individualized strategies that take into account tumors' specific characteristics and spread to optimize outcomes for each patient's needs.

Choosing Germany for treatment of ovarian cancer provides patients with a personalized and modern approach that blends innovation with precise care. This combination helps improve both survival rates and quality of life.

Standard Treatment Options for Ovarian Cancer in Germany

Standard procedures for ovarian cancer treatment cannot be so beneficial for patients when used as a standalone approach. German hospitals provide an individualized combination of conventional therapies and modern technologies to improve outcomes and quality of life. Here, we present some of the primary treatment modalities available in German cancer clinics.

Ovarian cancer surgery in Germany is a crucial step to complete recovery. Hospitals in Germany are specializing in modern surgical interventions that are aimed at removing as much cancer as possible. So when a tumor is in the early stage, it can be fully resected with the use of minimally invasive procedures like laparoscopy and robotic surgery. They are performed with small incisions, which helps reduce the recovery period and return to usual activities more quickly.

In cases of advanced ovarian cancer, there may be a need for extensive debulking surgery, which consists of the removal of all the visible tumor tissue. It can also include the resection of the ovaries, tubes, uterus, and surrounding organs.

Research shows that around 85% of ovarian cancer surgeries in Germany are performed using laparotomy methods. However, there is a trend moving towards minimally invasive techniques, which have a lower in-hospital mortality rate of 0.4% compared to 2.9% for open surgeries [9].

Chemotherapy for Ovarian Cancer

This kind of systemic therapy is usually added to the treatment plan after the surgery to kill the remaining cancer cells. In addition to modern chemotherapy strategies, oncology centers in Germany prioritize the well-being and efficacy of patient treatment.

Some of the things to know about chemotherapy for ovarian cancer in Germany:

• Treatment is administered in cycles to allow normal cells to recover and to reduce toxicity.
• Dose-dense scheduling: smaller, more frequent doses may improve outcomes in some cases.
• Combination with innovative techniques: hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is often combined with chemotherapy during surgery to achieve a better local effect.

This enables German clinics to achieve international recognition for the use of chemotherapy in advanced, individualized treatment concepts.

Targeted Therapy for Ovarian Cancer

Targeted therapy has transformed ovarian cancer treatment by focusing on specific biological mechanisms that allow cancer cells to grow and spread. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, targeted therapies aim to minimize damage to healthy tissues while disrupting cancer development.

In Germany, targeted therapies are a part of advanced ovarian cancer treatment strategies, often used alongside or after initial treatments to extend remission periods and improve survival rates.

During the course of treatment of ovarian cancer, targeted therapy is meant to impact the particular mechanisms in the cell division cycle, which make it possible for cancer to grow and multiply. Unlike chemotherapy, which does much damage, targeted drugs do not affect healthy surrounding tissues. German cancer centers use targeted therapy in the treatment strategies for advanced ovarian cancer to prolong remission and improve survival rates in all stages of the disease.

When receiving targeted therapy for ovarian cancer in Germany, you can expect:

• High precision.These drugs target only the tumor proteins that are involved in the cell division cycle.
• Lower side effects.The therapy helps spare healthy tissues.
• Improved remission.The disease progression is often blocked thanks to high personalization.
• Integration with standard therapies.It is often used in combination with surgery or chemotherapy, delivering a more comprehensive and effective treatment approach.

The latest advancements in targeted therapy can be available for the patients in leading German clinics as part of a personalized treatment plan. 

Radiotherapy for Ovarian Cancer

While it is not a part of usual ovarian cancer care, radiation therapy can be a great addition to the management of advanced cases with a palliative approach to reduce symptoms and deal with bleeding and pain. It can significantly improve patients' quality of life and help to make life more fulfilling even when the disease has metastasized.

Advanced techniques such as helical tomotherapy were developed to minimize damage to surrounding organs and provide better control over dosage.

Innovative and Advanced Therapies for Ovarian Cancer

HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy) for Ovarian Cancer

HIPEC is an advanced treatment where heated chemotherapy drugs are administered directly into the abdominal cavity after cytoreductive surgery. It targets residual cancer cells in patients with advanced tumors.

HIPEC can be performed in special centers in Germany. Their studies reported an increase in median survival up to 35 months in patients who underwent complete tumor removal with further HIPEC and additional systemic therapy [10, 11].

Electrochemotherapy (ECT) Treatment for Ovarian Cancer

ECT for ovarian cancer works exactly where tumor is localized. It uses local electrical pulses to open pores in cancer cell membranes – when cells are vulnerable, chemotherapy floods in at concentrations virtually impossible with IV treatment.

Electrochemotherapy in gynecological cancer is carried out as follows: electrodes positioned around tumor, computer-controlled pulses delivered under anesthesia, cancer cells become permeable. High-dose chemotherapy is administered through arterial catheters during isolated perfusion – drug uptake increases exponentially. Electro-chemotherapy action is based on difference: malignant cells are more vulnerable to electrical pulses than healthy tissue.

After 15-minute perfusion under hypoxic conditions, chemofiltration removes excess drugs – side effects are minimal, patients walk around clinic same afternoon. The method is particularly effective for peritoneal carcinosis resistant to chemo regimens.

The cost of electrochemotherapy is available through Booking Health website. Electrochemotherapy cost may differ in healthcare facilities based on their location and level.

Regional Chemotherapy for Ovarian Cancer

Regional chemotherapy for ovarian cancer delivers concentrated drugs directly to tumor. Professor Aigner uses cooking analogy: when he cooks with same ingredients as his wife, his dish isn't as tasty – so, it's essential to know exactly how to do it right. And he knows how to properly administer chemotherapy because he's been doing it for almost 45 years.

Hypoxic isolated abdominal perfusion has the following stages: balloon catheters isolate abdominal circulation, chemotherapy drugs are injected as bolus. Fifteen minutes under hypoxic conditions and then chemofiltration removes drugs, preventing undesired systemic toxicity.

Regional chemotherapy in Germany at Medias Klinikum Burghausen shows such results: 107 patients, median survival 11.9 months (drug-refractory cases), response rates 69%, quality of life improved 74%. Professor Aigner performed 20,000+ procedures – no one else worldwide has that experience.

EXPERT

Professor Karl Reinhard Aigner

Oncology, Regional Chemotherapy, Oncological Surgery

---

Professor Karl Reinhard Aigner pioneered combining arterial perfusion with electrooration, he performed over 20,000 procedures throughout his career.

BOOK CONSULTATION

Immunotherapy for Ovarian Cancer: Dendritic Cell Therapy

Dendritic cell vaccination (DCV) is a modern type of immunotherapy that is becoming a growing innovation in the management of ovarian cancer. The process starts from harvesting patients’ own dendritic cells from the blood, and in laboratory settings, they are exposed to tumor antigens without the harmful influence of the tumor microenvironment. This helps these antigen-presenting cells develop properly, and when administered back as the vaccine, stimulate an active immune response against cancer cells.

The role of dendritic cells was discovered by Ralph Steinman, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2011, laying the foundation for the development of cancer vaccination. DCV is known as a safe and beneficial procedure that has been shown in numerous scientific studies. One of them indicates that the combination of a cancer vaccine and chemotherapy prolongs overall survival by 13.4 months [12].

FAPI PET Imaging and FAPI-Based Therapy for Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer's tendency to scatter small foci across peritoneal surfaces is precisely what makes standard imaging insufficient for treatment planning — and what makes FAPI PET for ovarian cancer a clinically meaningful addition to the diagnostic picture. The tracer binds to fibroblast activation protein in tumor stroma rather than glucose metabolism, producing cleaner contrast in the abdomen where FDG background activity is highest. FAPI PET/CT for ovarian cancer has shown particular value in identifying peritoneal deposits that influence whether HIPEC, PIPAC, or cytoreductive surgery is the appropriate next step.

Because the scan measures FAP expression directly, FAPI PET CT for ovarian cancer also determines whether FAPI therapy for ovarian cancer — pairing the molecule with Lutetium-177 — is biologically viable for a specific patient. Booking Health's case review identifies where this imaging adds value and connects patients with German centers offering both the scan and, where uptake confirms it, the therapy.

Personalized Medicine for Ovarian Cancer

Each tumor has its own unique characteristics in terms of genetic and biochemical markers. Personalized medications are tailored specifically to match and effectively target ovarian cancer cells. Each patient undergoes comprehensive genome profiling as well as biomarker identification. This provides clinicians with valuable information about the tumor and helps in selecting targeted therapies that will be more effective and cause fewer side effects.

German cancer clinics have fully integrated this approach into everyday practice. Almost 80% of patients are offered genetic testing when they are just diagnosed with ovarian cancer [13]. This process helps make more effective clinical decisions and improve outcomes even in women with advanced tumors.

Best Hospitals for Ovarian Cancer Treatment in Germany

The effectiveness of ovarian cancer therapy largely depends on the right choice of medical institution. Booking Health cooperates with leading cancer centers in the world which implement modern treatment approaches. Such clinics are distinguished by high standards of medical care, significant experience of gynecological oncologists and wide application of innovative technologies (including alternative ovarian cancer treatment in Germany).

International patients choose these institutions not only because of stable clinical results, but also due to the presence of international certifications (JCI, ISO) and orientation to the individual needs of each woman. A special place among them is occupied by ovarian cancer treatment centers in Germany which combine academic medicine with advanced clinical protocols.

Best Hospitals for Ovarian Cancer Treatment in Germany

University Hospital Ulm

The University Hospital Ulm is one of the leading centers in Germany for the treatment of complex oncological and gynecological cases. A multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of ovarian cancer in Germany is used here, including cytoreductive surgery, HIPEC and individually selected systemic therapy regimens. Treatment is planned taking into account the stage of the disease and the molecular characteristics of the tumor. The clinic's active participation in international research opens up access to new therapeutic protocols for patients, which allows it to be considered the best ovarian cancer hospital in Germany for many international patients.

Asklepios Hospital Barmbek Hamburg

Asklepios Hospital Barmbek in Hamburg has the status of a certified oncology center and significant experience in the treatment of tumors of the female reproductive system. The main emphasis is on teamwork of specialists of different profiles, which allows achieving stable results even in complex clinical situations. The clinic actively implements ovarian cancer treatment options in Germany, in particular modern targeted drugs and cellular techniques. Patients undergo a full cycle of treatment – from accurate diagnosis to long-term observation.

University Hospital Rechts der Isar Munich

The Rechts der Isar Clinic at the Technical University of Munich combines academic medicine with extensive practical experience in the treatment of cancer patients. The Gynecological Oncology Center specializes in minimally invasive interventions and complex cytoreductive surgeries. Access to international research and new clinical protocols allows the clinic to be included in the list of best hospitals for ovarian cancer treatment in Germany – where therapy is planned taking into account the histology of the tumor.

University Hospital Tuebingen

The University Hospital of Tübingen is known for its scientifically oriented approach to the treatment of cancer. Close cooperation with research institutes allows for the rapid introduction of new therapeutic strategies into clinical practice. It is here that the areas that form the best ovarian cancer treatment in Germany are actively developing – including innovative methods and patient participation in research programs.

LDG Laboratories Dr. Gansauge

Headed by Dr. Frank Gansauge, LDG Laboratories offers innovative dendritic cell therapy, making it a leader in immunotherapy for ovarian cancer Germany offers. The clinic’s focus is on high personalization and precision in cell-based therapies, with dendritic cell vaccination being their primary specialization. They offer every patient a chance to take control over their disease with options beyond standard chemotherapy and surgery.

University Hospital Essen

University Hospital Essen is ranked among the top hospitals for ovarian cancer in Germany. The hospital focuses on robotic-assisted gynecologic surgeries led by its department head, Prof. Dr. Klaus Rainer Kimmig. His extensive experience with minimally invasive procedures ensures patients recover quickly.

Our patients leave high reviews of Essen University Hospital, especially for the personalized approach, care, and support throughout the treatment journey. This results in improved quality of life and better tumor control.

Patient Story: Gretta Gasparian's Experience

Hospitals in Germany are very good at managing patients with advanced cancer. People from all over the world seek the best care they can get. German clinics have all the tools, so that women with ovarian cancer are able to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Gretta Gasparian was diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer. She traveled from Russia to receive dendritic cell therapy at LDG Laboratories, Dr. Gansauge. Booking Health helped Gretta to access the clinic in a timely manner. She was amazed by the team's support and assistance during her entire journey. Gretta received help with medical documentation, visa, and translation on-site. Dr. Gansauge provided personalized care when receiving dendritic cell vaccination. She is now feeling much better with improved quality of life and fewer symptoms, even though her tumor is advanced. Gretta’s story encourages women from all around the world to remain hopeful and seek options that can help them spend more time with their family and friends.

Ovarian Cancer Treatment Costs

The cost of ovarian cancer treatment in Germany is based on criteria such as the selected hospital and therapies required. When deciding to receive treatment in Germany, you will receive only transparent prices and high-quality care. Women are also provided with a detailed treatment plan and cost estimates.

Below you can take a look at the comparison between standard and innovative therapies, as well as prices of ovarian cancer treatment around the world.

Comparative Table: Ovarian Cancer Treatments

Booking Health data

Patients considering advanced treatment for ovarian cancer abroad often compare countries based on technology, access to innovation, and cost. Here is a comparison of Germany with other popular medical tourism destinations:

Medical Procedures Costs for Ovarian Cancer

*Prices may vary depending on the course of treatment and tumor characteristics

Medical Travel Support for Ovarian Cancer with Booking Health

In recent years, ovarian cancer treatment has shifted to the use of modern technologies, minimally invasive procedures, and personalized targeted therapies, which can be accessed by patients from all around the world in Germany. Modern hospitals, multidisciplinary teams, treatments like HIPEC, DCV, or electrochemotherapy are giving patients a chance at recovery, no matter what stage of cancer they are diagnosed with.

Booking Health offers comprehensive support to international patients, managing all aspects of their medical journey. This includes organizing consultations and hospital admissions, helping with paperwork and visas, and professional medical translation. Booking Health takes care of all logistics so that the patient can concentrate on their recovery.

Booking Health helps with:

• Evaluation and review of medical reports
• Development of the healthcare program
• Choosing an appropriate site for treatment
• Preparing medical documents and sending them to an appropriate clinic
• Initial consultations with clinicians to develop medical care programs
• Guidance from professionals during your hospital stay
• Follow-up care once the patient has returned to their home country
• Handling the formalities involved in preparing for the medical care program
• Managing and arranging the patient's stay abroad
• Support with visa applications and ticket bookings
• A personal coordinator and interpreter available 24/7 for support
• Clear budgeting that reveals all costs upfront

Get in touch with Booking Health to receive a consultation from a medical expert so that you can begin your treatment as soon as possible and receive the most favorable outcomes.

Booking Health holds ISO 9001 quality certification, reflecting well-established processes and strict quality control at every stage of the treatment journey — not just at the initial consultation, but throughout.

Get a tailored treatment strategy for my case

Modern Cancer Treatment: Patient Journeys with Booking Health

Sarah M. (United Kingdom), April 2026

Diane O. (United Kingdom), March 2026

Faeqa M. (Bahrain), March 2026

Joy F. (United Kingdom), January 2026

Patricia J. (USA), November 2025

Monica A. (Croatia), October 2025

Eliza A. (Armenia), June 2025

Susan Clark L. (USA), April 2025

Choose treatment abroad and you will for sure get the best results!

Authors:

This article was edited by medical experts, board-certified doctors Dr. Nadezhda Ivanisova, and Dr. Yana Dmytryshyn. For the treatment of the conditions referred to in the article, you must consult a doctor; the information in the article is not intended for self-medication!

Our editorial policy, which details our commitment to accuracy and transparency, is available here. Click this link to review our policies.

Sources:

01. World Cancer Research Fund. Ovarian Cancer Statistics. Published 2024.

02. World Ovarian Cancer Coalition. Ovarian Cancer Key Stats. Published 2022.

03. Robert Koch Institut. Ovarian Cancer. Published 2020.

04. Sindhu Sekar, Srividhya Budithi, Sujeewa Fernando. Trends in the incidence and mortality of cervical, ovarian, and corpus uteri cancers in Wales, UK: A joinpoint regression analysis from 2002 to 2021. Cancer Epidemiol. 2024 Dec:93:102660. doi: 10.1016/j.canep.2024.102660. Epub 2024 Sep 10. [DOI] [PubMed]

05. Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance. Ovarian Cancer. Published 2024.

06. National Ovarian Cancer Coalition. Types and Stages. Published 2024.

07. American Cancer Society. What is Ovarian Cancer. Ovarian Tumors and Cysts. Published 2024.

08. UT Health San Antonio. Ovarian Cancer: Early Detection Can Help Save Lives. Published 2023.

09. Pietro Trocchi, Pawel Mach, Karl Rainer Kimmig, Andreas Stang. Ovarian cancer surgery in Germany: An analysis of the nationwide hospital file 2005–2015. Womens Health (Lond). 2022 Jan-Dec:18:17455065221075903. doi: 10.1177/17455065221075903. [DOI] [PubMed]

10. Edin Karabeg, Philipp Harter. Expert commentary on HORSE/MITO18 and CHIPOR. J Gynecol Oncol. 2025 Mar 19;36(2):e87. doi: 10.3802/jgo.2025.36.e87. [DOI] [PMC free article]

11. Philipp Harter, Gerhard Bogner, Luis Chiva et al. Statement of the AGO Kommission Ovar, AGO Study Group, NOGGO, AGO Austria, Swiss AGO, BGOG, CEEGOG, GEICO, and SFOG regarding the use of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in epithelial ovarian cancer. Bull Cancer. 2024 Mar;111(3):277-284. doi: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2023.02.011. [DOI] [PubMed]

12. David Cibula, Lukas Rob, Peter Mallmann et al. Dendritic cell-based immunotherapy (DCVAC/OvCa) combined with second-line chemotherapy in platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer (SOV02): A randomized, open-label, phase 2 trial. Gynecol Oncol. 2021 Sep;162(3):652-660. doi: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2021.07.003. [DOI] [PubMed]

13. Bich Doan Nguyen-Sträuli, Joanna Baum, Philipp Meyer-Wilmes et al. Survey on implementation of molecular testing in ovarian cancer and PARP inhibitor: a national North-Eastern German Society of Gynecologic Oncology/Young Academy of Gynecologic Oncology/Arbeitsgemeinschaft Gynäkologische Onkologie intergroup analysis. Int J Gynecol Cancer. 2022 Oct 3;32(10):1297-1302. doi: 10.1136/ijgc-2022-003637. [DOI] [PubMed]

Read:

01. Treatment of stage 4 ovarian cancer in Germany

02. Ovarian cancer – modern treatments

03. Leading 10 Gynecologic Oncologists in Germany