MULTIDISCIPLINARY TEAM MEETING IN THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF GASTROINTESTINAL CANCER

“The implementation of multidisciplinary meetings was a major advancement in the first ‘Cancer Plan’ (Plan cancer) launched in France in 2003 and is now adopted in most countries worldwide. These meetings ensure that treatment decisions are made collectively and adhere to internationally recognized medical guidelines,” shared Prof. Thierry André, professor of medical oncology at the Sorbonne Université in Paris, Head of the Medical Oncology Department at the Saint Antoine Hospital (Paris, France), Vice President of Groupe Coopérateur Multidisciplinaire en Oncologie (GERCOR).

The professor emphasized that multidisciplinary meetings during the initial care of cancer patients are a key factor in ensuring long-term treatment quality.

For a multidisciplinary meeting to be effective, at least three specialists from different medical disciplines must participate to provide a comprehensive assessment of all possible treatment options. In the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal cancer, the multidisciplinary team typically includes oncologists, gastroenterologists, surgeons, pathologists and radiologists. Additionally, treatment requires the support of other healthcare professionals, such as nurses, psychologists and nutritionists.

In each case, the proposed treatment plan must be discussed and decided upon within the multidisciplinary meeting, with the participation of all relevant specialists. This treatment approach is personalized based on each patient’s specific condition, considering factors such as cancer stage, overall health status, and comorbidities.

Following the multidisciplinary meeting’s decision, patients attend a consultation where the recommended treatment plan is explained in detail. Patients are encouraged to provide informed consent and ask any questions they may have regarding their treatment and care process. They will also receive guidance on practical matters to help them better understand and prepare for their treatment journey.

Dr. Bui Quang Loc, Head of the Oncology Unit at Hanoi French Hospital (HFH), shared: “At Hanoi French Hospital, we conduct multidisciplinary meetings for every cancer patient. This approach allows us to ensure accurate and comprehensive cancer diagnosis, consensus among specialties, and the development of a personalized treatment plan. It also helps patients and their families gain a clearer understanding of the treatment process.”

With the advisory support of Prof. Thierry André, one of the world’s leading experts in medical oncology, particularly gastrointestinal cancer, Hanoi French Hospital aims to integrate the latest research findings from the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO), the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), and other prestigious international organizations into cancer treatment in Vietnam.

For consultations or appointments with our specialists, please contact our HOTLINE: 024.35771100 or message our Facebook Fanpage: “Hanoi French Hospital” or Zalo OA: zalo.me/2008009049335817955.