Surgery for Gastrointestinal Neuroendocrine Tumors: overview

Neuroendocrine tumours of the gastrointestinal tract account for less than 2 per cent of all tumours of this localization. Such formations are located in epithelial tissues. To date, neuroendocrine tumours of the stomach include a large list of tumours with various variants of the clinical course. Such neoplasms often metastasize and enter other tissues.

The Israeli clinic TAMC uses modern methods of instrumental diagnostics, histological, immunohistochemical and molecular genetic research. This allows us to assess the malignant potential of the formation as accurately as possible and to prescribe optimal individual treatment for patients. The treatment regimen depends on many factors: the size of the formation, the type of tumour, the site of localization, the presence of metastases. Often, surgery is used to treat a tumour, after which chemotherapy or radiation can be given to destroy the remaining abnormal cells. 

Preparing for surgery

Before the operation, the patient undergoes comprehensive diagnostics, which helps to determine not only the features of the development of the disease but also the presence of an allergic reaction in the patient and assess the general state of health. The patient also needs to have a card with the data on the previous study and follow all the doctor’s recommendations.

Surgery 

If there is only one tumour, then the most effective treatment is surgery. If multiple tumour processes are found in the body, then therapy may include chemotherapy and targeted therapy. Also, the patient may be prescribed substances that suppress the production of hormones.

The entire procedure is performed under anaesthesia. The doctors of our department use minimally invasive methods of operating, which is low-traumatic and safe for the patient. Surgical intervention for this disease implies either the removal of the neoplasm itself within healthy tissues or (in case of serious damage) the radical removal of the entire organ. Often, nearby lymph nodes are also excised. 

Rehabilitation 

After the removal of a malignant tumour, the patient is for some time in a hospital under the close supervision of a doctor. The specialist develops an individual plan for the restoration of the body for each patient, which includes carrying out physiotherapy, taking medications, and adhering to a diet. Before the patient is discharged, the doctor will tell you about all the intricacies of further treatment.