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Treatment for small intestine cancer can involve a variety of approaches based on the individual characteristics of a patient and the cancer itself. At Moffitt Cancer Center, our multispecialty small intestine tumor board collaborates to create an individualized plan for treatment that takes into account the unique dynamics of each patient’s condition and medical history, and then meets weekly to monitor his or her progress. This team of oncology specialists reviews lab results and other analyses, steering the patient’s therapy to ensure the best possible outcome and quality of life.

Common types of treatment used for small intestine cancer

Patients under the care of Moffitt’s Gastrointestinal Oncology Program may receive one or more of the following treatment options from our small intestine cancer team:

  • Surgery – A surgeon may remove the tumor and some adjacent tissue, if appropriate. If a tumor cannot be removed, our surgeons can create a bypass around the tumor so that the small intestine can continue to function.
  • Chemotherapy – By using therapeutic drugs, our medical oncologists can destroy or slow the growth of small intestine tumors. In addition to oral chemotherapy (administered by mouth) and systemic chemotherapy (administered by injection into a vein or muscle), patients may receive targeted biologic immune therapy. Chemotherapy is often administered in combination with surgery and/or radiation therapy.
  • Radiation therapy – In some cases, we can use high-energy X-rays, often in combination with surgery and/or chemotherapy, to destroy cancer cells. Radiation therapy may also be prescribed for advanced cancers when surgery is not an option. The small intestine tumor team offers brachytherapy (a form of internal radiation therapy), as well as the latest, extremely precise radiation techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy and Novalis Radiosurgery.

In addition, patients at Moffitt Cancer Center have access to innovative therapies through our robust clinical trials program, as well as supportive care to help with symptom management and improve quality of life.

If you’re interested in finding out more about small intestine cancer treatment, contact Moffitt Cancer Center by calling 1-888-663-3488 or by filling out our new patient registration form. No referral is necessary.