Surgery plays a crucial role in the comprehensive treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, aiming to remove tumors and potentially cure the disease.

Types of GI Cancers

GI cancers encompass a variety of malignancies affecting different parts of the digestive tract:

• Esophageal Cancer: Surgical procedures may involve removing part or all of the esophagus (esophagectomy).

• Stomach Cancer: Surgery includes partial or total gastrectomy to remove the affected portion of the stomach.

• Colorectal Cancer: Resection of the colon or rectum (colectomy or proctectomy) is common, depending on the location and stage of the cancer.

• Liver Cancer: Surgical options range from liver resection to liver transplantation for eligible patients.

• Pancreatic Cancer: Surgery may involve pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure) for tumors in the head of the pancreas, or distal pancreatectomy for tumors in the body or tail.

Goals of Surgery

• Curative Intent: Surgery aims to remove the tumor completely, potentially curing the cancer if detected early and confined to the organ.

• Palliative Care: In advanced cases, surgery may relieve symptoms, such as obstruction or bleeding, improving quality of life.

Multidisciplinary Approach

GI cancer surgery involves collaboration with other specialists:

• Medical Oncologists: For chemotherapy or targeted therapy before or after surgery.

• Radiation Oncologists: To administer radiation therapy, often used in combination with surgery.

Advances in Surgical Techniques

• Minimally Invasive Surgery: Laparoscopic and robotic-assisted techniques reduce recovery time and complications compared to open surgery.

• Enhanced Imaging: Preoperative imaging such as CT scans and MRI helps surgeons plan precise procedures.

Patient Considerations

• Preoperative Preparation: Assessing overall health and optimizing nutritional status and fitness for surgery.

• Postoperative Care: Monitoring recovery, managing potential complications, and facilitating rehabilitation.

Surgery for GI cancer is tailored to each patient’s specific condition, aiming to achieve optimal outcomes through a combination of surgical expertise, advanced technologies, and collaborative care across multiple disciplines.