Liver, Pancreatic, Gallbladder & Bile Duct Cancer Treatment
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Our Approach
Stamford Health offers comprehensive, compassionate, and advanced treatment for hepatobiliary cancers including liver, pancreatic, gallbladder, and bile duct cancer. While these less common cancers may be more challenging to diagnose and treat, we have the expertise to provide world-class care.
The Carl & Dorothy Bennett Cancer Center which relies on person-centered care with evidence-based treatment, broadened its relationship with Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center. This allows our patients to have enhanced oncology care from both world-class teams.
Cancer diagnosis and treatment can be a confusing, and sometimes frightening, process. Stamford Health’s nurse navigators ensure that no patient is ever left feeling alone. Our navigators work as part of a multidisciplinary oncology team to provide support to patients through their entire cancer treatment journey. They answer questions, coordinate appointments and services, and offer referrals to additional resources, if needed.
Since liver and pancreatic cancers tend to run in certain families, we also offer genetic counseling. This team, including genetic counselors and doctors, works with the Bennett Cancer Center to provide guidance, information, and, in some cases, testing to understand and possibly reduce your risk.
Meet Our Providers
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Surgery
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MEDICAL ONCOLOGY
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RADIATION ONCOLOGY
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RADIOLOGY
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PATHOLOGY
A Closer Look At Our Cancer Care
ADVANCED IMAGING TECHNOLOGY
For a quicker, more accurate diagnosis, we employ CT scans with special protocol for studying the pancreas and liver; advanced MRI; and state-of-the-art PET scan.
DANA-FARBER BRIGHAM CANCER CENTER COLLABORATIVE
Our deepening relationship means our physicians work with Dana-Farber Brigham doctors to provide a second opinion right from the start, access to clinical trials, and care guided by the most advanced evidence-based best practices in cancer treatment and research.
INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PROGRAM
This evidence-based approach combines traditional scientific medicine, psychology, nursing, nutrition, exercise physiology, and belief to enhance the natural healing capacities of the body and mind. This range of complimentary therapies is offered to each patient in combination with conventional cancer treatment.Liver, Pancreatic, Gallbladder & Bile Duct Cancer Treatment Options
Once we confirm your diagnosis, treatment depends on the type and stage of your liver, pancreatic, or bile duct cancer. Your oncologist will work with you and your family to personalize a plan that’s best for you.
Whenever possible, our board-certified surgeons use minimally invasive techniques. This means you’ll likely have less pain, less blood loss, and a quicker recovery.
When you need radiation therapy, our expert team depends on the latest technology to care for you. Your radiation oncologist will develop a personalized care plan, which may include radioembolization for primary or metastatic liver cancer.
If needed, your oncologist will create a plan for your chemotherapy treatment, which will include your dosage of medication and how often you'll receive it. For immunotherapy, this ground-breaking treatment activates specific parts of the immune system to fight cancer.
Symptoms Of Liver, Pancreas & Bile Duct Cancer
While it’s common to not have any specific symptoms, you may experience any of the following:
- Weight loss
- Abdominal or back pain
- Jaundice
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Pancreatitis
- Decreased energy
Testing & Diagnostics
In addition to CT scans, MRI, and PET scans, our team of dedicated interventional radiologists use endoscopic ultrasounds and ERCP to accurately diagnose your condition. We also have the option of presenting your case in front of a multidisciplinary tumor board, including highly trained oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and a gastrointestinal nurse navigator, to recommend a course of treatment.Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center Collaborative
Stamford Health’s comprehensive, ongoing collaboration with Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center ensures that our patients receive world-class, clinical expertise close to home. Stamford Health physicians work together with Dana-Farber Brigham physicians to offer timely second opinions and allow access to the latest research, treatment options, and clinical trials. For more information on how this unique relationship helps our patients, watch the video.
Hepatobiliary Cancer FAQs
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Who should consider screening for liver, pancreatic, gallbladder, or bile duct cancer at Stamford Health?Screening is recommended for individuals with specific risk factors, including a family history of these cancers, certain genetic conditions, and chronic liver diseases. Age-appropriate recommendations may vary, and it's crucial to consult with your health care provider to determine the most suitable screening plan for you.
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How frequently should individuals undergo screenings for liver, pancreatic, gallbladder, or bile duct cancer, and is there a difference based on risk factors?The frequency of screenings depends on individual risk factors and medical history. Generally, individuals with higher risk may need more frequent screenings. Your health care provider will tailor the screening schedule based on your specific risk profile, emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring for early detection and intervention.
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How can individuals reduce their risk of developing liver, pancreatic, gallbladder, or bile duct cancer, and are there lifestyle modifications that can help?Reducing the risk of these cancers involves adopting a healthy lifestyle. This includes maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, managing a healthy body weight, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol consumption, and staying physically active. These lifestyle modifications can contribute to overall well-being and may help lower the risk of cancer.
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Can genetic counseling or testing be beneficial in assessing the risk of these types of cancer, and how can individuals access these services at Stamford Health?Yes, genetic counseling and testing can provide valuable insights into hereditary factors that may influence the risk of liver, pancreatic, gallbladder, or bile duct cancer. Stamford Health offers genetic counseling services to help individuals understand their risk and make informed decisions about their health. To access these services, speak with your health care provider who can provide guidance and facilitate the necessary referrals.