Digestive Tumours Unit

Expert care for highly complex gastrointestinal cancers

The Digestive Tumours Unit at the Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital is a highly specialised department dedicated to the surgical treatment of tumours of the digestive tract as part of a comprehensive, coordinated and patient-centred oncological strategy.

The approach integrates oncological surgery with multidisciplinary planning, taking into account the biology of the tumour, its extent and the various treatment options available at each stage of the disease.

In the field of colorectal cancer, the Unit has a specific focus that enables it to apply advanced surgical techniques and therapeutic strategies aimed not only at controlling the disease, but also at preserving function and quality of life in selected cases.

When is a specialist assessment recommended?

The Unit cares for people with a confirmed diagnosis or suspected diagnosis of gastrointestinal cancer who require an expert assessment to determine the best treatment strategy.

Each case is assessed individually, taking into account the type of tumour, its stage, the patient’s overall clinical condition and the possible treatment options.

This approach makes it possible to clearly establish when surgery is indicated and how it should be integrated into a comprehensive and coordinated treatment plan.

Specialist approach to gastrointestinal cancer

The Unit provides expert treatment for the main tumours of the digestive tract, with an organisation based on areas of subspecialisation that allows treatment to be tailored to each type of condition:

• Oesophageal cancer: requires precise surgical planning integrated into
complex therapeutic strategies• Stomach cancer: with approaches tailored to the extent of the tumour and the clinical context•
Colon and rectal cancer: with a particular focus on minimally invasive techniques and organ-preserving strategies for rectal cancer in
selected cases• Pancreatic cancer: highly complex, with surgical indications carefully
selected• Tumours of the gallbladder and bile ducts: with specific treatment planning based on their clinical behaviour

Each condition is analysed taking into account its tumour biology, local or systemic spread, and the available treatment options, with the aim of defining the most appropriate strategy for each clinical situation.

Accurate diagnosis and treatment planning

The initial assessment includes a specialist clinical consultation and a detailed review of the available diagnostic tests, such as endoscopic examinations, CT scans, MRI scans, PET-CT scans and histopathological analyses.

Where necessary, further investigations are carried out to determine the exact extent of the tumour and its potential resectability.

Treatment decisions are made within multidisciplinary committees comprising specialists in Medical Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Interventional Radiology and Pathology. This approach ensures consistency in treatment, up-to-date scientific evidence and structured planning.

Advanced oncological surgery with individualised indications

The Unit performs digestive oncology surgical procedures using high-precision techniques, including advanced laparoscopic surgery and robotic surgery where indicated.

In the colorectal field, minimally invasive approaches and therapeutic strategies are developed to optimise oncological and functional outcomes, particularly in rectal cancer.

In more complex situations or where the case requires it, open surgery is performed following thorough pre-operative planning. In the field of hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery, combined strategies involving Interventional Radiology may be integrated as part of a coordinated therapeutic approach.

Specialist team and clinical support

The team comprises surgeons who specialise specifically in gastrointestinal oncological surgery and have extensive experience in highly complex procedures.

Our work is carried out in constant coordination with the other specialities involved in cancer treatment, ensuring continuity of care, structured planning and clinical safety at every stage of the process.

From the very first consultation, we take the time needed to explain the diagnosis, the treatment options and the treatment process, supporting the patient at every stage through clear and structured communication.

Care is not limited to the surgical procedure itself, but encompasses follow-up, constant communication and a clinical environment that prioritises trust, understanding and respect for each person’s individual circumstances.