The Stomach Cancer Surgery Program includes specially trained cancer surgeons who are experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of stomach problems including benign ulcers, gastric cancers and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs).
As a part of the Gastrointestinal Oncology Program, fellowship-trained surgical oncologists work together with gastroenterologists, medical and radiation oncologists, clinical dietitians, and supportive care providers to offer a full range of integrated services for patients.
Our patients are presented at a multidisciplinary tumor board during which patient-specific details including pathology and radiology results are discussed. The treatments we recommend depend on multiple factors including the patient’s extent of disease (stage of cancer), overall health, tolerance for particular procedures and therapies, and preferences. If possible, we try to provide the most minimally invasive approach.
Our goal is to help our patients to live longer, and with the best quality of life.
Conditions we treat
- Gastric (stomach) cancers
- Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) in the GI tract including the stomach and gastroesophageal junction (GEJ)
- Benign stomach problems including ulcers and non-cancerous tumors
Treatments and procedures
- Partial gastrectomy, which involves removing the cancerous part of the stomach and nearby lymph nodes (lymphadenectomy), and reconstructing the gastrointestinal tract.
- Total gastrectomy, which involves removing the entire stomach and surrounding lymph nodes (lymphadenectomy) and reconnecting the esophagus to the small intestine.
- Minimally invasive surgery, including laparoscopy and robotic-assisted surgery. In laparoscopy, surgery is performed through tiny incisions using the laparoscope. Robotic-assisted surgery is similar to laparoscopy but performed with the robotic surgical tool that uses magnified 3-D imaging
Most early-stage gastric cancers and GIST tumors are treated by surgery. For many people with gastric cancer, we can offer a minimally invasive surgical technique, using laparoscopy or robotic surgery, to help decrease recovery time and minimize pain.
For more advanced stomach cancers, our multidisciplinary team may recommend treatments in addition to surgery, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy or a combination of these modalities.
Clinical trials
Our surgical oncologists advance knowledge of surgical treatment options and outcomes for stomach cancer through research and clinical trials.