The Marin Cancer Institute now offers a comprehensive program for the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of gastrointestinal cancer - the fourth highest diagnosed group of cancers in Marin.

These cancers include the esophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, colon, rectum and anus.

MCI Medical Director Dr. Lloyd Miyawaki said, “For most people diagnosed with gastrointestinal cancer, the challenge for the patients and the healthcare team is to coordinate multiple specialist consultations and diagnostic tests and implement complex treatment plans which involve a multidisciplinary team of gastroenterologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists and medical oncologists.

“The sequencing of physician visits, tests and procedures can be very difficult for the patient. A Nurse Navigator will be at the hub of the patient’s experience, and will ensure that the medical experience is coordinated and seamless.”

The moment a patient enters the program, they are connected with the Gastrointestinal Cancer Care Coordinator, Stella Petrakis-Rinne, MS, RN, AOCN, CNS, an experienced Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist. She will guide the patient throughout the process, serving as an educator and advocate, and providing the patient with support services.

Comprehensive diagnostic services include endoscopy (EGD, sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy), capsule endoscopy, ultrasound, endorectal ultrasound, CT, MRI and PET Scan.

Treatment services include: Surgery - featuring minimally invasive surgical techniques; Medical Oncology - offering chemotherapy and new targeted molecular therapies; and Radiation Oncology - including Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy, the latest advance in radiation treatment.

Feb. 13, 2006