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Our Nurse Navigators and American Cancer Society Patient Navigator are here Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm to answer your questions. Give us a call.
Gastrointestinal cancer is cancer within the digestive system that can affect the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, intestines, rectum & anus. Our team of experts
Gastrointestinal Cancer Care at UVM Medical Center
Gastrointestinal cancer could be any of the following:
- Pancreatic cancer
- Colon cancer or rectal cancer
- Liver cancer (hepatoma and colorectal liver metastases)
- Stomach cancer (also called gastric cancer)
- Esophageal cancer
- Hepatobiliary cancer (gallbladder and bile duct)
- Neuroendocrine tumors
At The UVM Medical Center, we provide a complete evaluation of each patient and develop a personalized treatment plan. Our team of gastrointestinal cancer specialists includes:
- Surgeons
- Medical oncologists
- Radiation oncologists
- Gastroenterologists
- Pathologists
- Radiologists
- Nurses
- Research staff
- Cancer patient support specialists
We know how overwhelming it can be to have cancer, so our team makes sure you have all the resources you need. Our nurses will help you with education about your diagnosis and treatment, as well as act as a single point of contact for you and your family. We'll even help you with support services, such as finding transportation, financial assistance and help with insurance issues.
Gastrointestinal Cancer Diagnosis
The diagnostic tests that are right for you will depend on the type of gastrointestinal cancer that you have. At The UVM Medical Center, our specialists will analyze your situation and perform the necessary tests to diagnose your condition. Some possible tests include:
- Upper endoscopy - a thin tube with a camera on the end is inserted through your throat to take a look at your stomach.
- Imaging studies, including:
- Barium swallow - a special type of X-ray exam
Treatments for Gastrointestinal Cancer
There are many treatments used for gastrointestinal cancers. The treatment you need will depend on which type of cancer you have and how advanced it is. Typical treatments for gastrointestinal cancer include:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy - the use of medicines to kill cancer cells
- Radiation Therapy - the use of high-energy radiation to shrink tumors & kill cancer cells
- Interventional Radiology - using sophisticated imaging tools to perform minimally invasive procedures
These treatments might sound intimidating. You should know that a great deal of progress has been made in cancer care. Some patients fear the side effects of chemotherapy, but there are many drugs which can now significantly decrease these symptoms.
Cancer Resources
- Cancer Support Services - Our patients have access to cancer support services, which offers supportive and professional services to cancer patients and their families. Many patients do not know where to turn for help with first facing a gastrointestinal cancer diagnosis.
- Cancer Support Groups
- Cancer Events Calendar
View Our Locations
Gastroenterology - UVMMC Main Campus
111 Colchester Avenue
Main Campus, Main Pavilion, Level 5
Burlington, VT 05401-1473
General Surgery - Main Campus
111 Colchester Avenue
Main Campus, Main Pavilion, Level 5
Burlington, VT 05401-1473
Cancer Center - Patient Guide
Learn about how we work with you, your care team, what to expect, common concerns, and more.