Gastrointestinal Cancer Program
When it comes to treating gastrointestinal cancer, experience matters. Our multidisciplinary team of fellowship-trained surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation specialists brings expertise and close collaboration to every case. From diagnosis through recovery, we focus on delivering the most effective therapies — with compassion, support, and a plan tailored to you.
Comprehensive, Patient-Centered Care
With more than a century of leadership in cancer care in the Puget Sound, we combine clinical expertise with compassionate support at the Providence Swedish Cancer Institute — so you can move forward with confidence, knowing you have a team of specialists by your side.
In addition to advanced gastrointestinal (GI) cancer treatments, we offer streamlined access to groundbreaking clinical trials — often faster than other centers — along with innovative options like HIPEC and histotripsy. Our support services include genetic counseling, nutrition guidance, and survivorship care, all designed to help you feel informed, supported, and cared for.
Gastrointestinal Cancer Conditions We Treat
We provide comprehensive care for gastrointestinal cancer and related conditions, including early-stage, invasive, and high-risk cases.
- Bile Duct Cancer
- Esophageal Cancer
- Gallbladder Cancer
- Liver Cancer
- Neuroendocrine Cancer
- Pancreatic Cancer
- Small Intestine Cancer
- Stomach Cancer
- Gastrointestinal Cancer
Colon and rectal cancer are treated by specialists in our Colon and Rectal Cancer Program.
Meet Our Gastrointestinal Cancer Team
At the Providence Swedish Cancer Institute, you’ll be cared for by a tightly connected group of specialists who bring deep expertise and a personalized approach to treatment, prevention, and long-term wellness. Our gastrointestinal cancer experts work collaboratively to support your health through every stage of care.
Testing & Diagnostics
Our gastrointestinal specialists use advanced testing and diagnostic tools to accurately identify the type, stage, and unique characteristics of your gastrointestinal cancer.
We also offer screenings and genetic testing to promote awareness and early detection of many types of cancer.
A biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample to determine whether cancer cells are present. It’s a common and reliable diagnostic method used to determine the presence of cancer cells. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is used to remove a small sample of tissue or fluid. A core needle biopsy removes a slightly larger tissue sample, and a surgical biopsy may be needed if a larger sample is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
Different types of imaging may be recommended based on the suspected type and location of the tumor. MRI uses radio frequency waves and a magnetic field to create detailed images of organs and tissues. PET/CT scans combine two types of imaging to show both the structure and function of tissues. X-rays are used to evaluate suspected cancer in bones, tissues, and organs, providing a fast, effective view of abnormalities. Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce pictures of the body's internal organs.
Endoscopy uses a thin, flexible tube with a light and a camera to look inside your digestive tract. Upper endoscopy allows your doctor to view the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine. Lower endoscopy, also known as a colonoscopy, examines the colon and rectum. These procedures help detect polyps, abnormal tissue, or cancerous growths early, often before symptoms appear.
An endoscopic ultrasound combines endoscopy and ultrasound to create detailed images of the digestive tract and surrounding lymph nodes. This advanced tool helps your care team determine the extent of your cancer and whether it has spread.
Genetic tests, also known as genetic screenings, DNA tests, or chromosomal tests, predict your risk of developing certain malignancies, especially if you have a family history of cancer. We offer treatment, management, and prevention plans that are personalized to your unique genetic profile.
MRCP is a special type of MRI that creates detailed images of the bile ducts, gallbladder, liver, and pancreas. It is non-invasive and particularly useful in diagnosing blockages, tumors, or abnormalities in the biliary and pancreatic systems.
Next-generation sequencing, or molecular tumor profiling, looks at the unique genetic features of your tumor. Analyzing the DNA of cancer cells can identify specific changes that may be causing the cancer to grow. This helps your care team understand what’s driving your cancer and whether targeted treatments or clinical trials might be a good fit for you.
Advanced Treatments for Gastrointestinal Cancer
The most effective treatment plan is one personalized for you and targeted to the unique characteristics of your tumor. Depending on your condition, you may receive one or more of the following treatments:
Available Options for Clinical Trials and Research
We're committed to furthering cancer research because we're committed to finding you the best treatment. Your care team will proactively tell you about any of the ongoing clinical trials that might be a fit for your treatment plan.
Awards & Accreditations
The Providence Swedish Cancer Institute is nationally recognized for excellence in cancer care, research, and patient outcomes. Our dedication to advancing cancer treatment has earned accreditations and distinctions from some of the most respected institutions in the country.
American College of Radiology (ACR) - Diagnostic Imaging Center of Excellence
American College of Surgeons (ACS) - Commission on Cancer Accredited Program
American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) - Accreditation Program for Excellence (APEx)
Patient Resources & Support
Frequently Asked Questions
Your care team may include gastroenterologists involved in diagnosis or early treatment, surgeons who specialize in gastrointestinal cancers, and a support staff of nurses and physician assistants.
If your treatment includes cancer-directed medication, your medical oncology team will include a medical oncologist along with nurse practitioners, pharmacists, and nurses who specialize in GI cancers.
If radiation therapy is part of your treatment plan, you’ll also work with a radiation oncologist and a care team that may include radiation therapists, physicists, and nurses to guide you through that part of care.
Your treatment is unique to your diagnosis and needs. It may involve surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies, in addition to ongoing support services.
Your team walks you through each step, helping you manage side effects and access resources like nutrition counseling, social services, and survivorship programs. Our goal is always to ensure you feel supported throughout your care.Learn more details about available treatments for gastrointestinal cancer and what to expect during your treatment.
We provide a full range of supportive care services to support you during and after your cancer treatment. Some of these services include:
- Art therapists
- Cancer rehabilitation (onco-physiatry)
- Care coordinators
- Genetic counseling (cancer geneticist)
- Health educators
- Medical massage (edema, lymphedema management)
- Music therapist
- Naturopaths
- Nutritionists
- Oncology nurses
- Social workers
- Speech and language pathology
We can also help with finances, food, transportation, and other challenges for eligible patients through our patient assistance fund.
See the full list of supportive care services.
Note: Some services are provided by local partners and vary based on location. Please contact your clinic for more information.
Patients have access to hundreds of clinical trials involving most cancer types. We are often among the first in the U.S. to provide access to Phase 1 trials — the first stage of evaluating treatments in humans. Please note, we open new trials often. Check with your clinician for the latest in upcoming trials.
Learn more and find out if a clinical trial could become part of your treatment plan.
If you're feeling unsure about your pathology report – which explains details like the type, size, and stage of your cancer based on lab results – our team is here to help.
We will walk you through the report, answering questions so that you feel informed and confident about your diagnosis and treatment options.
Getting a second opinion can help you feel more confident in your diagnosis and treatment plan. If you’ve already been diagnosed somewhere else, we’re here to help you take the next step. Call 855-XCANCER, 855-922-6237 - our care coordinators will match you with the right cancer specialist and help schedule your visit. They can also work with your current physician to collect your medical records and test results.
Our goal is to help you understand the insurance and billing process.
We have financial counselors on staff to help you sort out any insurance issues. These counselors work with your insurance company to verify benefits and coordinate pre-certification or pre-authorization of care if necessary. Then, they coordinate all this information with the medical center’s billing services.
We also have oncology social workers who can help you with:
- Benefits advocacy, if you are eligible
- Financial counseling
- Medicaid applications
- Medicare and coordinating Medigap and prescription plans
Our mission is to improve the health and well-being of each person we serve. A crucial part of fulfilling this mission is our financial assistance program.
This program offers free or discounted services for those who cannot afford care, are underinsured, or have no insurance at all. We provide financial assistance in cases where annual family income is between zero and 400 percent of the federal poverty level, helping ensure that financial constraints aren’t a barrier to receiving medically necessary care.
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