Gastrointestinal Oncology
The Gastrointestinal (GI) Oncology Department at Burjeel Cancer Institute specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancers affecting the digestive system. Our expert team of oncologists, gastroenterologists, and surgeons provide comprehensive care for patients with cancers of the stomach, esophagus, liver, pancreas, colon, and other parts of the gastrointestinal tract. We use cutting-edge technology and the latest treatment protocols to offer personalized, multidisciplinary care for each patient.
Conditions We Treat
Our GI oncology team provides care for a wide range of cancers affecting the gastrointestinal tract, including:
- Colorectal Cancer
- Esophageal Cancer
- Gastric (stomach) Cancer
- Pancreatic Cancer
- Liver Cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)
- Bile Duct Cancer (cholangiocarcinoma)
- Small Intestine Cancer
- Anal Cancer
- Neuroendocrine Tumors of the GI Tract
- Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs)
- Other Rare Cancers of the Digestive System
Treatment Options
We offer a variety of advanced treatment options for gastrointestinal cancers, including:
Surgical Oncology
Our surgical team uses minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopic surgery and robotic-assisted surgery to remove tumors while preserving healthy tissue. Surgical options include, Colectomy : Removal of part or all of the colon for colorectal cancer , Whipple procedure : A complex surgery to remove part of the pancreas, bile duct, and small intestine for pancreatic cancer , Liver Resection : Removal of part of the liver for liver cancer or metastases , Gastrectomy : Partial or total removal of the stomach for gastric cancer.
Chemotherapy
Systemic treatment using drugs to destroy cancer cells, often used before or after surgery or in combination with other therapies.
Targeted Therapy
Uses drugs that target specific proteins or genes that promote cancer growth, providing a more focused and less toxic approach than traditional chemotherapy.
Immunotherapy
A treatment that boosts the body's immune system to recognize and fight cancer cells, used in certain GI cancers such as liver and colorectal cancer.
Radiation Therapy
Highly focused radiation is used to shrink tumors and destroy cancer cells, often in combination with surgery or chemotherapy.
Endoscopic Procedures
Minimally invasive procedures, such as endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), are used to remove early-stage tumors in the digestive tract without the need for major surgery.
Our Approach to Treatment
Our GI oncology team takes a multidisciplinary approach to ensure personalized, effective care for each patient:
Personalized Treatment Plans
Each patient receives an individualized treatment plan based on the type and stage of cancer, overall health, and personal preferences.
Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Our oncologists, gastroenterologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists work together to provide comprehensive care that addresses every aspect of the patient's condition.
Minimally Invasive Techniques
Whenever possible, we use laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery to reduce recovery time, minimize scarring, and improve outcomes.
Focus on Quality of Life
We prioritize treatments that not only target cancer but also maintain the patient's quality of life during and after treatment, with a focus on symptom management and rehabilitation.
Diagnostic and Monitoring Tools
We use advanced diagnostic tools to accurately diagnose and monitor gastrointestinal cancers:
Endoscopy
A procedure that allows doctors to visualize the inside of the digestive tract and collect tissue samples for biopsy.
Colonoscopy
Used to detect and remove polyps or tumors in the colon and rectum.
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)
Combines endoscopy and ultrasound to provide detailed images of the digestive tract and surrounding tissues, often used to stage cancers of the esophagus, stomach, and pancreas.
CT and MRI Scans
Provide detailed imaging of tumors, allowing for accurate staging and treatment planning.
PET-CT Scans
Used to detect cancerous activity and monitor the spread of gastrointestinal cancers.
Biopsy and Molecular Testing
Tissue samples are analyzed to determine the genetic mutations driving the cancer, helping to guide targeted therapy and immunotherapy options.
Supportive Care and Patient Service
In addition to medical treatment, we offer a range of supportive care services to improve the quality of life for patients with gastrointestinal cancers:
Palliative Care
Focused on managing symptoms such as pain, nausea, and fatigue, helping to improve quality of life during and after cancer treatment.
Nutritional Counseling
Our dietitians provide personalized dietary plans to support digestion, manage treatment side effects, and maintain overall health during cancer treatment.
Psychosocial Support
Counseling and emotional support services are available to help patients and families cope with the emotional challenges of a cancer diagnosis.
Rehabilitation Services
Physical therapy and rehabilitation programs designed to help patients regain strength, mobility, and independence after surgery or treatment.
Patient Navigation
Dedicated navigators assist patients in coordinating appointments, managing treatment schedules, and accessing necessary resources.
Advanced GI Oncology Techniques
Our GI oncology team uses the latest technologies and treatments to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients:
Laparoscopic and Robotic-Assisted Surgery
Minimally invasive techniques used to remove tumors with greater precision and faster recovery times.
Endoscopic Resection
Non-surgical removal of early-stage tumors in the GI tract through advanced endoscopic techniques.
Targeted Therapy
Personalized treatments that target specific mutations or pathways driving cancer growth, often used in conjunction with other therapies.
Immunotherapy
Cutting-edge treatments that harness the body's immune system to fight cancer, particularly effective in certain colorectal and liver cancers.
Patient Journey
Our patients receive expert, compassionate care throughout every stage of their treatment journey:
Initial Consultation
A thorough evaluation by a gastroenterologist or oncologist, including diagnostic imaging, biopsy, and molecular testing to assess the type and stage of cancer.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Based on diagnostic findings, a personalized treatment plan is developed, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of treatments.
Treatment
Patients receive their treatment according to the plan, with ongoing monitoring and adjustments as needed to ensure the best possible outcome.
Post-Treatment Care
Regular follow-up appointments to monitor recovery, manage side effects, and check for recurrence.
Long-Term Follow-Up
Continued care to monitor the patient's health and well-being, with a focus on survivorship and maintaining quality of life.
