Gastrointestinal (GI) Cancer
It is a group of cancers that affect the digestive system. These cancers can develop in any part of the digestive tract, which includes organs such as the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), rectum, and anus.
Types of Gastrointestinal Cancer
1.Esophageal Cancer:
Cancer that occurs in the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach.
2.Gastric (Stomach) Cancer:
- Cancer that forms in the lining of the stomach.
3. Colorectal Cancer:
- Cancer of the colon or rectum, often grouped together due to their common characteristics.
4. Small Intestine Cancer:
- A rare cancer that occurs in the small intestine.
5. Anal Cancer:
Cancer that occurs in the anus, the opening at the end of the digestive tract.
Common Risk Factors
- Age: Most gastrointestinal cancers are more common in older adults.
- Diet: High-fat diets, red meat, and processed meats have been linked to some GI cancers.
- Genetics: Family history and genetic predispositions (e.g., Lynch syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis) can increase risk.
- Chronic Inflammation: Conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis may increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
- Infections: Infections such as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) are linked to stomach cancer, while hepatitis B and C are associated with liver cancer.
- Lifestyle: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and lack of physical activity can also contribute to the risk.
Symptoms
It varies depending on the type and stage of the cancer but may include:
- Persistent indigestion or discomfort.
- Changes in bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea).
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Blood in stool or vomit.
Difficulty in Swallowing.
Diagnosis
It often involves a combination of:
- Endoscopy/Colonoscopy: To view the inside of the digestive tract.
- Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans to detect tumors.
- Biopsy: Taking a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope.
- Blood Tests: To detect markers associated with certain GI cancers.
Treatment
Esophageal cancer surgery is a primary treatment option for localized esophageal cancer. The specific type of surgery depends on the cancer’s stage, location, and the patient's overall health.
Surgery
To remove the tumor remains the Treatment of Choice in most of the Gastrointestinal Cancers.
With Latest Technology of Minimal Invasive Surgery we operate almost 99% of Gastrointestinal Cancers with Laparoscopic Surgery.
Depending on the affected Cancers we can do
- Laparoscopic Gastrectomy ( Stomach Cancer).
- Laparoscopic Hemicolectomy (Right and Left Colon).
- Laparoscopic Small Bowel Resection.
Minimal Invasive Surgery aids the benefits of Early Recovery, less post surgerical Morbidity and better cosmetic appearance with Oncological clearance
- Radiation Therapy: Using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy: Drugs that specifically target cancer cell growth mechanisms.