Digestive Oncology Unit

Specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal cancers, the Digestive Oncology Unit manages neoplasms affecting the digestive tract, including cancers of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, and rectum, as well as tumors of the hepatobiliary and pancreatic system.

The management of these tumors requires close collaboration among multiple medical specialties. A multidisciplinary diagnostic and therapeutic approach is essential to optimize clinical outcomes and improve patient survival.

The unit is staffed by specialists in gastrointestinal oncology with extensive clinical experience and a strong focus on personalized medicine, enabling a comprehensive approach that combines advanced diagnostics with treatment plans tailored to the characteristics of each patient.

Medical Team:

Dra. Elvira Buxó (Medical Oncologist, Medical Director)
Dr. Jaume Capdevila (Medical Oncologist)
Dr. Alejandro García (Medical Oncologist)
Dr. Lluís Cirera (Medical Oncologist)

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of gastrointestinal cancers is based on a comprehensive clinical evaluation, histological confirmation of the tumor, and assessment of its extent and biological characteristics.

Initially, the patient undergoes a clinical assessment, including evaluation of symptoms and initial imaging studies.

The main diagnostic procedures include:

Imaging Studies

• Computed Tomography (CT) scan
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in selected cases
• Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan to assess the extent of the disease

Endoscopic Procedures

• Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy
• Colonoscopy
• Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)

Diagnostic Confirmation

• Tumor biopsy and pathological examination

Molecular Analysis

• Assessment of biomarkers and genetic alterations of the tumor when indicated

Together, these investigations enable accurate diagnosis, staging of the disease, and selection of the most appropriate therapeutic strategy for each patient.

Treatments:

The treatment of gastrointestinal cancers is based on an individualized approach that takes into account the type of tumor, its location, stage, and the clinical characteristics of each patient.

The main treatment options include:

• Oncologic surgery, including specialized procedures for liver, pancreatic, and peritoneal tumors
• Chemotherapy
• Immunotherapy
• Targeted therapies (including monoclonal antibodies)

Treatment decisions are guided by information obtained from histological diagnosis, imaging studies, and biomarker and molecular analyses, allowing for the selection of more precise and effective therapies.

In certain cases, patient management is coordinated among the various specialties involved in order to define the best therapeutic strategy for complex clinical situations.

Research and Clinical Trials

The unit’s specialists actively participate in national and international clinical trials in the field of gastrointestinal cancers, serving as investigators in studies aimed at developing new therapeutic strategies.

When appropriate, patients may be evaluated for inclusion in active clinical trials at other centers, facilitating access to innovative treatments and emerging therapeutic options.

Approach and Services

• Specialized management of gastrointestinal cancers, with close coordination between medical oncology and other relevant specialties
• Comprehensive patient assessment
• Personalized medicine based on the biological characteristics of the tumor
• Support and guidance throughout the entire care pathway
• Clinical follow-up focused on the early detection of potential recurrences