Surgical Treatment for Gastrointestinal (GI) Cancers

The Weill Cornell Medicine Division of Surgical Oncology is an international leader in surgical treatments for GI Cancers.

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer surgery offers the chance for a cure to many people. But these procedures are often complex, requiring the skilled hands of experienced gastrointestinal cancer surgeons.

With advanced endoscopic and robotic surgery expertise the faculty are able to provide patients approaches that improve recovery and return to the life the patients want to live.

Surgery can also be combined with other GI cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, novel immunotherapy and radiation, to improve outcomes.

Our compassionate care team understands that having GI cancer surgery is a highly personal experience that can be overwhelming and tiring. We provide the best possible care so that you are as comfortable as possible throughout your surgery — and live the fullest, healthiest and most active life possible afterward.

In addition to their expertise, our physicians help you and your family make an informed decision about your care and provide treatments tailored to your needs and lifestyle goals.

Why Choose Weill Cornell Medicine?

Convenient, individualized care: The team of surgical oncologists at Weill Cornell Medicine is uniquely able to help patients with complex conditions. From gastroesophageal and pancreatic cancers, to rare bile duct, and neuroendocrine tumors, our surgeons specialize in the full spectrum of GI cancer procedures.

With surgery, our surgeons use minimally invasive approaches whenever possible. Minimally invasive surgery, such as laparoscopic and robotic procedures, offers improved access to hard-to-reach areas of the body, smaller scars and easier recoveries.

Multidisciplinary care from leading experts: Treatment of GI cancers requires collaborative care from both medicine and surgery. This unique multidisciplinary approach coordinates complex care, providing you with focused support — before, during, and after your surgery.

Surgical Treatments for GI Cancers

GI cancer surgery is often just one piece of your treatment puzzle. Many need chemotherapies, or immunotherapy, before or after surgery. And some may need multiple procedures that involve different specialists working as one in the operating room: 

●      Anal Cancer Surgery: Anal cancers are not common, so it can be hard to find doctors who treat them. At Weill Cornell Medicine, you have a whole team. Our GI cancer surgeons specialize in the treatment of anal cancers and cancer recurrences (cancers that return after treatment). We also offer advanced treatment options through clinical trials. Read more about anal cancer surgery.

●      Bile Duct Cancer Surgery: Bile duct cancer surgeries are rare and require advanced techniques. We perform many of these complex procedures every year, with low complication rates and excellent results. We also offer advanced bile duct cancer treatments, including hepatic artery infusion pumps and liver transplants.

●      Colon Cancer Surgery: If you have colon cancer, surgery is often an important part of your treatment plan. Our surgeons are skilled in surgeries that treat every stage of colon cancer, including procedures done during colonoscopies, colectomies and diverting colostomies. Read more about colon cancer surgery.

●      Esophageal Cancer Surgery: Esophagectomies are major surgeries. That's why people who go to hospitals that routinely do these procedures have better results. At Weill Cornell Medicine, we are leaders in esophageal cancer surgery.

●      Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GIST) Surgery: Your GIST care includes treatment from internationally recognized experts and access to the latest advances, surgical techniques and clinical trials. With advances in endoscopic and robotic approaches these tumors can be removed when possible, with minimal disruption to your life.

●      Liver Cancer Surgery: Our hepatobiliary surgeons deliver outstanding outcomes for every type of liver cancer surgery, including partial hepatectomies and liver transplants. We also provide the latest treatments for secondary liver cancers. Learn more about liver cancer surgery.

●      Pancreatic Cancer Surgery: Pancreatic cancer surgeries are complex, and your doctor's experience counts. Our nationally recognized hepatobiliary surgeons perform one of the highest volumes of pancreatic cancer surgeries in New York City.

●      Rectal Cancer Surgery: Recent advancements in rectal cancer care — including the addition of radiation and chemotherapy to treatment plans — have led to better outcomes. Our integrated rectal cancer team works together to create personalized treatment plans that coordinate care and optimize your quality of life. Learn about rectal cancer surgery.

●      Small Intestine Cancer Surgery: At Weill Cornell Medicine, you have an elite team of small intestine cancer specialists on your side. They leverage their decades of experience to effectively treat these tumors at every stage — and provide great outcomes after small bowel resection and surgical bypass.

●      Stomach Cancer Surgery: We are leaders in gastrectomy’s to treat existing stomach cancers. In collaboration with our multidisciplinary team of medical oncologists, and advanced gastroenterologist we aim to provide a treatment plan that is optimal for you. Advanced in surgical technique and robotics allows our team to provide approaches that will allow you to get home quicker and back to your family. Our comprehensive program also provides extra support to help you make informed decisions about your care. This support includes genetic and nutrition counseling.

What to Expect During Your Surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine

At Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian, we support our patients and their loved ones while they receive treatment. Learn more about what to expect for preparing for your surgery and during your stay.

Make an Appointment

Whether you visit us virtually through a video visit or you see us in person, you can be assured that we will deliver the highest standards of care with compassion. Our team has taken every step to keep our facilities safe for you to continue your care. Learn more about our safety measures and the changes we’ve made to enhance your patient experience.

If you would like a remote second opinion, we can connect you directly with expert physicians and specialists at the Weill Cornell Medicine Colon and Rectal Surgery Division. They will review your individual situation, answer your questions and provide you with information you can share with your family and local practitioner. You can then decide to come to our facilities for treatment or choose to stay in your hometown and receive treatment locally. Learn more at WCM OnDemand Second Opinion.

Meet Our Surgeons

The surgeons at the Weill Cornell Medicine Surgical Oncology Division offer patients the highest level of safety and care. As a top-ranked academic medical center, you have access to our extensive network of specialists who provide seamless care throughout your treatment — to promote long-term physical and mental health.