A coordinated and targeted approach to treating gastrointestinal cancers
At Maimonides Cancer Center, you receive gastrointestinal (GI) cancer care from not just one doctor, but from a dedicated team of highly skilled surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, gastroenterologists, radiologists, nurse practitioners, and others who work together to tailor your personal treatment plan. We take the most advanced approaches to diagnosing, treating, and managing the full range of GI cancers, including colorectal, anal, stomach, liver, gallbladder/bile duct, pancreas, and tumors of the GI tract.
We use state-of-the-art magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), endoscopic ultrasound, positron emission tomography (PET), and computed tomography (CT). Along with radiation therapy and chemotherapy, we also use leading-edge, minimally invasive surgeries to reduce postoperative pain and recovery time.
About colorectal cancer
The fourth most diagnosed cancer in the United States, colorectal cancer starts in the large intestine (colon) or rectum (the end of the colon), usually as noncancerous (benign) polyps. While there are several types of colorectal cancer screening methods, colonoscopies are the only test that can find potentially concerning polyps and lesions and remove them.
The American Cancer Society urges people to start colon cancer screening at age 45.
Learn about the Maimonides Colon Cancer Screening Program
Treating colorectal cancer
Surgery is the primary treatment for cancers of the colon and rectum. Our surgeons specialize in minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic procedures that spare nerves and function. With a revolutionary robotic surgical system, which magnifies tumors, we are dramatically improving patient outcomes. Some patients also benefit from radiation, chemotherapy, or both, either before or after surgery. Devoted to treating the whole patient, not just the disease, we offer a wide range of cancer support services, including genetic counseling and psychosocial support.
Treating other gastrointestinal cancers
Anus
If you have anal bleeding, pain, or pressure around the anus; itching or discharge from the anus; or a lump near the anus, these are possible symptoms of anal cancer and you should see your primary care physician immediately.
Gallbladder or bile duct
Bile duct cancer most commonly occurs in men and women older than 65 years. Surgery is the recommended bile duct or gallbladder cancer treatment.
If surgery is not possible, then radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination of both may be recommended.
Liver
Surgery is the only curative liver cancer treatment, and involves removing the cancerous tumor, nearby tissue, and possibly the lymph nodes. Preoperative chemotherapy or radiotherapy may shrink the tumor and increase the chance of cure or a better prognosis.
Pancreas
Surgery is appropriate in only 25% of patients who present at the early stages of pancreatic cancer. Preoperative chemotherapy treatment may shrink the tumor and increase chance of cure.
Stomach
Surgical removal of the stomach is the only curative stomach cancer treatment, although a surgical bypass procedure may help relieve symptoms. Preoperative chemotherapy may shrink the tumor and increase the chance of cure.
