Getting Diagnosed with Gastrointestinal Cancer

You may feel anxious if you have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, liver cancer, pancreas cancer, endocrine cancer or another type of gastrointestinal cancer. Take comfort in the knowledge that we are experts in treating cancers of the digestive system.

The UMass Memorial Health Cancer Center offers personalized, high quality care in patient-focused settings at four convenient locations: UMass Memorial Medical Center, UMass Memorial Health – HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital, UMass Memorial Health  – Harrington Hospital, and UMass Memorial Health –  Marlborough Hospital. Our physicians work with the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School to discover new treatments, so our patients benefit from the latest diagnostic and surgical procedures. The team here will guide you through your options and provide you with the best cancer treatment plan possible.

Our specialists come together in a single setting to discuss each patient’s diagnosis and develop a thorough treatment plan. This is also known as multidisciplinary care. While malignant (cancerous) tumors can sometimes be aggressive, our patients benefit greatly from our expertise and early input.

In most cases, our team members will be able to meet with you one-on-one during a single appointment. We’re here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you with both your physical and emotional needs.

Gastrointestinal Diseases We Treat

• Colorectal cancer
• Pancreatic cancer 
• Appendiceal (appendix) cancer 
• Liver tumors
• Anal cancer
• Esophagus cancer
• Hepatocellular cancer (a type of liver cancer)
• Peritoneal carcinomatosis 
• Bile duct cancer
• Neuroendocrine tumors (cancers that interface between the endocrine, or hormonal, system and the nervous system)
• Cancers of the small intestine
• Stomach/gastric cancer

Gastrointestinal Cancer Services We Provide

• Biopsy (stereo core biopsy, ultrasound-guided biopsy, fine-needle aspiration biopsy)
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Surgery
• Medical oncology
• Gastrointestinal support group for cancer patients and their families
• Genetic testing and counseling
• Cancer support programs