Care for Digestive Sarcomas
Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is a sarcoma of the digestive system. This rare gastric tumor usually begins in the lining of the stomach or other parts of the intestine. GIST may grow slowly and not pose any problems, or it may grow quickly and cause bleeding, obstruction, or perforation, which require emergent treatment.
At NewYork-Presbyterian Queens, our cancer experts are highly experienced in the care of people with GIST and other sarcomas, including retroperitoneal sarcomas. Retroperitoneal sarcomas are soft tissue cancers that develop in the back of the abdomen.
Our Approach
We will put together a team of healthcare professionals to provide the care you need. Our digestive cancer surgeons, gastroenterologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, genetic counselors, oncology navigators, oncology nutritionists, physical therapists, and other specialists are known for providing leading medical, surgical, and supportive care for people with GIST and other sarcomas. When planning your treatment, our physicians consider the type, location, and stage of your sarcoma, as well as your age and physical health. Your team meets regularly in multidisciplinary tumor boards to discuss your care and ensure you receive the most effective therapies. Our doctors are also on the digestive cancer care team at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center.
GIST Symptoms
Small GIST tumors may not cause any symptoms. If you do experience symptoms, they may include:
- Blood (either bright red or very dark) in the stool or vomit
- Pain in your belly, which may become severe
- Fatigue (feeling very tired)
- Trouble or discomfort while swallowing
- Feeling full after only eating a little food
Because other disorders may cause these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor.
Minimally Invasive GIST Surgery
If your doctor recommends GIST removal, we may use endoscopy or surgery to remove the tumor. Our surgeons are experienced in minimally invasive surgeries or traditional open surgeries. With minimally invasive surgeries such as laparoscopic or robotic surgery, the surgeon operates through small incisions using specialized tools. This approach results in smaller incisions, less blood loss, less pain after surgery, a shorter hospital stay, and a quicker recovery. Our hospital has Da Vinci Xi robots, allowing surgeons to operate through small incisions with greater magnification of the surgical field and more precision.
Targeted Therapies for GIST
A number of targeted medications that aim at the molecular abnormalities that drive the growth of GIST are available. Your doctor will prescribe the treatment that is best for you. Examples of these drugs include:
- Avapritinib
- Imatinib
- Ripretinib
- Regorafenib
- Ripretinib
- Sunitinib
These medications are taken orally (by mouth), so you can take them at home. We may also check the genes in your tumor and in your blood for mutations that could be targeted.
Retroperitoneal Sarcoma Treatment
Retroperitoneal sarcomas, such as liposarcoma or leiomyosarcoma, are rare soft tissue cancers. Our cancer specialists are experienced in treating these challenging cancers, combining surgery, radiation therapy, and/or systemic therapy.
Clinical Trials for Sarcomas
At New York Presbyterian Queens, we participate in clinical trials with our sister NewYork-Presbyterian centers to evaluate novel treatments to advance the care of people with sarcomas, especially if your tumor stops responding to standard treatments. You may be able to participate in a clinical trial of a promising treatment.
Why Choose Us
GIST and sarcomas are rare soft tissue cancers and should be treated by a team of specialists who are familiar with their behavior and the therapies used to manage them. At NewYork-Presbyterian Queens, we tailor a plan of care for you. We also offer nutritional counseling, psychosocial support, and palliative care to enhance your comfort and well-being. As part of one of the country's largest medical centers, you'll also have access to specialists from all areas who collaborate with our cancer experts to provide you with comprehensive care. Please make an appointment today with one of our renowned digestive cancer physicians.