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Radiation therapy is generally not a primary form of treatment for GI carcinoid tumors, mainly because it is usually not very effective for this purpose when used on its own. The technique uses targeted, high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells and is most frequently used in combination with other treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy or tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy. However, it may be recommended as a solo treatment when a cancer is advanced and surgery is not an option. In these cases, radiation therapy can be useful for managing the growth and spread of inoperable tumors as well as alleviating the associated side effects.

Moffitt Cancer Center’s Gastrointestinal Oncology Program is one of the most advanced in the nation, and our multispecialty team of experts takes an integrated approach to treating carcinoid tumors in the digestive tract. We develop highly individualized treatment programs using specialized techniques and state-of-the-art technologies, such as high-precision radiation therapy for targeting inoperable GI carcinoid tumors while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue and organs. Other options we offer include:

  • Targeted drugs and drug combinations that can treat advanced GI carcinoid tumors with greater effectiveness and fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy

  • Minimally invasive, robotic-assisted surgical techniques that can remove tumors with fewer complications, shorter recovery times and less discomfort than traditional surgery

  • Customized regimens that combine surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and/or immunotherapy for maximum effectiveness

Additionally, Moffitt’s patients have access to an extensive team of supportive care experts, including rehabilitation specialists and dietitians. Working closely with the other members of our multispecialty team, these professionals can detect and address issues affecting quality of life that are related to GI carcinoid tumors and their treatments. This includes everything from managing symptoms such as pain, nausea and fatigue to adjusting to a new post-treatment diet and lifestyle.

If you’d like to learn more about radiation therapy for GI carcinoid tumors, the experts at Moffitt can help. Call 1-888-663-3488 or complete a new patient registration form online. No referrals are required.