Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) at uncommon locations: a large population based analysis.

Introduction: Sparse information is available about GISTs in uncommon locations. Our large database analysis aims to determine the characteristics of GISTs in the esophagus, colon and rectum and compare to gastric GISTs.

Methods: The Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database was queried from 1990 to 2009 using CS SCHEMA v0203.

Multidisciplinary cancer conferences for gastrointestinal malignancies result in measureable treatment changes: a prospective study of 149 consecutive patients.

Background: In most jurisdictions, a minority of patients are discussed at multidisciplinary cancer conference (MCC) despite recommendations for such reviews. We assessed the impact of MCC review of gastrointestinal (GI) cancers at a stand-alone cancer center.

Methods: Patient data were prospectively collected on consecutive cases presented at a GI MCC during a 6-month period.

Transhiatal versus transthoracic esophagectomy for esophageal cancer: a 2005-2011 NSQIP comparison of modern multicenter results.

Background: The surgical approach to esophageal cancer continues to be controversial. A transthoracic approach is often advocated for better oncologic staging and improved survival. A transhiatal approach is often preferred due to a perceived decreased operative morbidity and mortality.

Morbidity and mortality associated with gastrectomy for gastric cancer.

Background: Surgery alone is often inadequate for advanced-stage gastric cancer. Surgical complications may delay adjuvant therapy. Understanding these complications is needed for multidisciplinary planning.