Appendiceal Cancer Treatment
Treatment for appendiceal cancer depends on various factors, such as the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the overall health and preferences of the patient. Here are some common treatment options:
- Surgery: Surgery is often the primary treatment for appendix cancer. The extent of the surgery depends on factors like the size and location of the tumor. In some cases, the surgeon may remove only the appendix (appendectomy). In more advanced cases or if the cancer has spread, a more extensive surgery may be needed to remove part of the colon, nearby lymph nodes, or other affected tissues.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy may be used before or after surgery to help shrink the tumor, kill any remaining cancer cells, or prevent the cancer from coming back. Chemotherapy drugs are usually given intravenously or orally.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It may be used after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells or to relieve symptoms in cases where surgery is not possible.
- Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy drugs work by targeting specific molecules involved in cancer growth and progression. These drugs may be used in some cases of appendix cancer, particularly if the cancer has specific genetic mutations.
- Clinical Trials: Clinical trials may offer access to new treatments that are not yet widely available. Patients may consider participating in clinical trials to access potentially beneficial treatments and contribute to medical research.
- Palliative care: In addition to cancer-directed treatments, supportive care may be provided to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. This may include pain management, nutritional support, and psychosocial support.
Because of its rarity, appendiceal cancer should be treated by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. The specific treatment plan often involves a combination of these methods and is tailored to the individual patient’s situation. Regular follow-up and monitoring by your GW Cancer Center multidisciplinary team are essential to assess the treatment's effectiveness and manage any side effects or complications.
Gastrointestinal Cancer Program
The GW Cancer Center’s Gastrointestinal Cancer Program is a comprehensive initiative dedicated to treating cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, including colorectal, liver, and pancreatic, with advanced treatment therapies.
Our team consists of nationally renowned specialists in gastroenterology, medical and radiation oncology, and interventional radiology. We also collaborate across GW with experts in colorectal, hepatobiliary, pancreatic, and thoracic surgery. The program is recognized for its multidisciplinary, patient-centered approach that combines advanced diagnosis and treatment options.
We employ leading-edge technologies in our treatment protocols, such as the da Vinci® Xi robotic system for minimally-invasive surgeries and resections, as well as the Medrobotics Flex™ Robotic System. In addition to chemotherapy and advanced stereostactic body radiation, we treat eligible patients with systematic therapies, including immunotherapy and targeted therapies (drugs that work at the molecular level to stop cancer).
Research and Clinical Trials
Gastrointestinal cancer research at the GW Cancer Center is designed to investigate the various biological, genetic, and environmental factors contributing to gastrointestinal cancers, develop new treatments, and enhance existing ones. Our community-based research is focused on understanding and reducing gastrointestinal cancer disparities in the DC-metro region, including colon and liver cancer, special populations affected by HIV and anal cancer.
GW Liver and Pancreas Institute for Quality
The GW Liver and Pancreas Institute for Quality (LPIQ) offers innovative, state-of-the-art treatments for patients with pancreatic, liver, bile duct, duodenum, and gallbladder diseases.
Executive Director Lynt Johnson, MD, MBA, and the LPIQ team have more than 80 years of combined experience in hepatobiliary surgery and treatments. With well over 1000 combined pancreas resections and 700 liver resections, LPIQ offers nationally superior outcomes in a specialized, multidisciplinary environment.
Patients have access to surgical approaches for the most complex conditions, interventional ablative techniques, vascular reconstruction, targeted precision drug therapies, advanced stereotactic body radiation treatment, multidisciplinary oncologic pre-treatment planning, clinical trials, and perioperative care. In addition, our Advanced Nurse Practitioners and Program Manager provide personalized care with informative and open communication between patients and referring physician caregivers.
