In some cases the GIST may be large or extend into other organs. Even here, a surgeon may try to remove the entire cancer. This may reduce the chances that the cancer will block, or obstruct, the gastrointestinal tract. To completely remove the tumor, the doctor may have to remove portions of other organs. But even if the tumor is large and has spread into other organs, this may improve long-term survival. The surgeon may also remove GISTs that have spread elsewhere in the abdomen, such as the liver.

Unlike many other cancers, an extensive operation beyond the removal of the tumor is not necessary. For example, the removal of lymph nodes, which is important to consider in other cancers, is not needed in patients with GIST. This is because GIST does not often spread to the lymph nodes.

Surgical treatment of recurrent GISTs. Doctors are still uncertain whether surgical removal of GISTs that come back in the abdomen or elsewhere improves survival. Some studies have reported that surgery to remove recurrent GISTs has improved patient survival, but other studies have not had similar results. Your doctor may suggest surgery to remove recurrent lesions. You should discuss with your doctor and family the risks and benefits of this treatment.

Revised 8-18-03