Skip to Content

Gastrointestinal cancer

Gastrointestinal cancers affect the digestive system. These can include anal, esophageal, stomach, liver, colon, rectal and pancreatic cancers. Sarah Cannon Cancer Network oncologists can treat them with chemotherapy, radiation therapy or surgery.

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer treatment in Nashville, Tennessee

Through diagnosis, treatment and recovery, we'll support you on your cancer journey.

We are HCA Healthcare Sarah Cannon Cancer Network at TriStar Health. Our oncologists know GI cancers can be slow growing and hard to find. We use leading-edge technology to diagnose and treat you as quickly as possible.

Have cancer questions?

We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated, confidential helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7.

We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated, confidential helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7.

Types of digestive cancer we treat

Given the complexities of the digestive system, GI cancer can affect a range of different organs. Our team of gastrointestinal oncologists are equipped to treat cancerous conditions such as:

  • Anal cancer
  • Biliary tract cancer
  • Colorectal cancer
  • Esophageal cancer
  • Gallbladder cancer

GI cancer treatments and services

Our comprehensive care is designed to help identify and treat your condition with the most advanced cancer care options available.

Abdominal cancer symptoms

If you have abdominal cancer, you may not have symptoms in the early stages. However, you should keep your eye out for signs such as:

  • Heartburn or indigestion
  • Losing weight without trying
  • Nausea
  • Poor appetite
  • Sense of fullness just below your chest after eating
  • Stomach pain
  • Swelling or fluid build-up in the abdomen
  • Vomiting, with or without blood

Diagnosing cancerous conditions

Symptoms of GI cancers can mirror other noncancerous conditions, so it is important to discuss any and all symptoms with your doctor so that a proper medical examination can rule out cancer or other serious conditions. Your doctor may use various imaging tests and diagnostic procedures, including:

  • Biopsy
  • Blood test
  • Computerized tomography (CT) scan
  • Digital rectal scan
  • Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)
  • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
  • Upper endoscopy
  • Upper GI series

GI cancer treatments

Our surgical oncologists have gained specialized knowledge of rare and complex cancer types after treating many people with these diseases. We use intensity-modulated radiation therapy, as well as the only robotic radiosurgery system in the Greater Nashville area. These technologies, including radioembolization treatments, chemoembolization and radiofrequency ablation, allow us to more precisely treat tumors you may have.

About HCA Healthcare Sarah Cannon Cancer Network

Fighting cancer takes a team

HCA Healthcare Sarah Cannon Cancer Network delivers you exceptional cancer care through cutting-edge, specialized treatments, multidisciplinary collaboration and care that is tailored to you. Our teams of passionate caregivers and global oncology experts across the United States and United Kingdom offer services and expertise that extend across many types of cancer. Together with the full support of HCA Healthcare – a leading provider of cancer care and research – we’re with you and your family from diagnosis through survivorship.

askSARAH helpline

Have cancer questions? We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7, and all calls are confidential. Contact askSARAH at (844) 482-4812.

Thrive Blog

Read our blogs to learn about preventive care and ways you can lead a healthier lifestyle.

Artificial intelligence for cancer detection and treatment planning
May 05, 2025
Tayla Holman
Learn how doctors are using artificial intelligence for cancer detection, diagnosis and treatment, and how it enables accurate and effective cancer care.
Can a blood test detect cancer in the body?
May 05, 2025
Tayla Holman
Can a blood test detect cancer in the body? Learn how to read blood test results and how a blood test can help identify cancer markers.

Looking for a location?

We also offer quality care at these other locations in our extended network.

Our Locations

We didn't find any facilities that matched your search

Please enter a new search using more specific search criteria.