The pioneers in the field of gynecologic oncology set out to establish an evidence-based approach to the care of women with gynecologic cancer, combining the modalities of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Quality of life has become the cornerstone of care for these patients, in addition to advancing survival through surgical technology, collaborative research trials, and molecular approaches to early diagnosis and management. This article addresses the epidemiology, screening, preventive strategies, diagnosis, staging, surgical care, adjuvant therapy, prognosis, and recurrence management of three common gynecologic malignancies encountered in the operating arena: endometrial, cervical, and vulvar cancer.