Oligometastatic Cancer Program
The Oligometastatic Cancer Program at Smilow Cancer Hospital consists of a multidisciplinary team of nationally recognized physicians and clinicians who are experts in providing care for patients with oligometastatic cancer.
Oligometastatic cancer is a concept in oncology that describes a state of cancer progression in which the cancer has spread, but only to a few specific areas. Unlike widespread metastatic disease, where cancer has spread extensively to distant organs, oligometastasis involves a more localized and contained pattern of metastatic spread. Effectively, oligometastatic cancer represents a middle ground between localized cancer (cancer of one area) and widespread metastatic cancer.
Our Approach
The clinical significance of identifying patients with oligometastatic cancer lies in its potential for more targeted and aggressive treatment approaches. Unlike widespread metastatic disease, where the primary goal may be palliative or to control symptoms, oligometastatic cancer offers patients an opportunity for interventions that can lead to a cure.
This identification has been facilitated by advancements in imaging technologies, particularly the use of positron emission tomography (PET) scans. These sophisticated imaging techniques enable our clinicians to detect and visualize small numbers of metastatic sites that might be overlooked by conventional imaging methods.
Here at Smilow Cancer Hospital, our multidisciplinary teams treat oligometastatic disease using the following treatment types:
The concept of oligometastatic cancer has gained increasing attention in the field of oncology, leading to clinical trials and extensive research aimed at refining its definition, understanding its behavior, and determining optimal treatment strategies. It is important to note that all cancer types are different and do not show an oligometastatic pattern, and the relevance of this concept varies across different tumor types.
The management of oligometastatic cancer requires a personalized and multidisciplinary approach, considering factors such as the primary tumor type, the location of metastases, overall patient health, and treatment goals. Our team of clinicians collaborates directly with patients to identify the presence of oligometastatic disease, establish a tailored treatment plan, and enhance outcomes for patients in this unique stage of cancer progression.
For gastrointestinal oncology-related appointments, view the profile of Kiran Turaga, MD, MPH.
For gynecologic oncology-related appointments, visit the profile of Elena Ratner, MD, MBA.
