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Radiation therapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, which include cancers of the esophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, small intestine, and colorectal region. Its specific role varies depending on the type and stage of the cancer, but generally includes the following:
Adjuvant Therapy: After surgery to remove a GI tumor, radiation therapy may be used to kill any remaining cancer cells that could not be surgically removed. This reduces the risk of cancer recurrence.
Neoadjuvant Therapy: Sometimes radiation therapy is given before surgery to shrink the tumor and make it easier to remove completely. This approach is often used in rectal cancer to improve surgical outcomes.
Palliative Therapy: For advanced GI cancers that cannot be cured, radiation therapy can help alleviate symptoms such as pain, bleeding, or obstruction. This is known as palliative radiation therapy.
Definitive Therapy: In cases where surgery is not possible, radiation therapy may be used as the primary treatment to attempt to cure the cancer. This is more common in certain types of esophageal and anal cancers.
Combination Therapy: Radiation therapy is frequently combined with chemotherapy (chemoradiation) in the treatment of many GI cancers. This combination can enhance the effectiveness of treatment and is often used in both curative and palliative settings.
Control of Localized Disease: Radiation therapy is effective at targeting and killing cancer cells in a specific area. This is particularly beneficial in GI cancers where localized disease control is critical due to the proximity of vital organs.
Improving Quality of Life: By reducing tumor size or relieving symptoms such as pain or difficulty swallowing, radiation therapy can significantly improve the quality of life for patients with GI cancers.
The specific approach to using radiation therapy in GI cancers depends on many factors including the type of cancer, its stage, the patient's overall health, and other treatments being used. Radiation oncologists work closely with other specialists such as surgeons, medical oncologists, and gastroenterologists to determine the best treatment plan for each individual patient.
Dr. Roberto Lipsztein, MD
Program Director
Radiation Oncologist
Biography
Dr. Roberto Lipsztein is a radiation oncologist in Forest Hills, New York and is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including Mount Sinai Hospital and Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health. He received his medical degree from State University of Rio de Janeiro Faculty of Medical Science and has been in practice for more than 20 years. Dr. Roberto Lipsztein accepts Medicare, Aetna, Humana, Cigna, Blue Cross, United Healthcare - see other insurance plans accepted. Dr. Roberto Lipsztein is highly recommended by patients.