Multidisciplinary care

A team of specialists meets regularly to review your case and align on the best treatment approach.

Advanced treatment options and clinical trials

You have access to leading therapies, including targeted treatments, immunotherapy, and minimally invasive procedures. You also have opportunities to participate in research studies exploring new and promising therapies.

Convenient local access

Receive expert gastrointestinal cancer treatment in Charleston and across the Lowcountry at multiple locations close to home.

What cancers are considered upper gastrointestinal cancers?

Upper gastrointestinal cancers are cancers that affect the upper digestive tract. This can include cancers of the esophagus, stomach, liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas and small intestine.

Who is involved in upper gastrointestinal cancer treatment?

Your care may involve several specialists working together, including gastroenterologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists and medical oncologists. This team approach ensures your care is tailored to your diagnosis.

Are clinical trials available for upper gastrointestinal cancer?

Yes. Our physicians participate in research and clinical trials, giving patients access to emerging therapies and new treatment approaches.

What happens after treatment ends?

We continue to support you with follow-up care and survivorship programs, including wellness services, nutrition guidance, support groups and ongoing monitoring.

Gastrointestinal cancer | Roper St. Francis Healthcare

Expert care for upper gastrointestinal cancers

Upper gastrointestinal cancers can affect your health, comfort and peace of mind. You’ll have access to a team that understands both the complexity of these cancers and the importance of caring for you as a whole person. We provide diagnosis, treatment and ongoing support for cancers of the upper GI tract and digestive system, bringing together advanced science, experienced specialists and compassionate support so you never feel like you’re navigating cancer alone.

You are matched with physicians who focus on your specific type of gastrointestinal cancer. We tailor your care based on the molecular and genetic profile of your cancer whenever possible.

The cancer journey can be frightening, confusing, and overwhelming—often involving physical, financial, and emotional challenges for you and your family. From diagnosis to survivorship, we have numerous resources available to support you during your treatment experience. Learn more about our support programs for blood-related cancers.

Full continuum of care

What you need to know about GI cancers.

We care for patients with cancers affecting all parts of the upper digestive system, including:

Bile duct cancer
Esophageal cancer
Gallbladder cancer
Liver cancer
Pancreatic cancer
Small intestine cancer
Stomach cancer

Getting the right diagnosis starts with a careful, thorough evaluation. We take time to understand your symptoms, medical history and concerns, then use advanced testing to build a clear and accurate picture of your health.

Your evaluation may include:

Abdominal ultrasound
Barium swallow (esophagram)
Blood tests to assess organ function
Endoscopy or endoscopic ultrasound with biopsy
Imaging such as CT, MRI or PET scans

Our specialists meet regularly to review complex cases together, combining their expertise to confirm your diagnosis and recommend the most effective next steps.

Your care plan is tailored to your diagnosis, overall health and goals. Our specialists work together to recommend the best treatment approach, combining proven therapies with advanced, targeted options. Many cases are also reviewed by a multidisciplinary team to ensure every treatment recommendation is carefully considered.

Treatment options may include:

Chemoembolization or radioembolization
Chemotherapy
Endoscopic resection
Immunotherapy that helps your immune system fight cancer
Radiofrequency or microwave ablation
Radiation therapy
Surgery, which is often a key part of treatment
Targeted therapies that act on specific cancer genes

A diagnosis can affect more than your physical health. We provide guidance and support to help you navigate each phase of care with confidence, so you never feel alone in the process.

Our resources include:

Cancer prevention and screenings to help you stay proactive about your health.
Cancer survivorship program (THRIVE) to help you transition from treatment to active living
Free legal clinic to provide guidance on documents like healthcare powers of attorney and living wills
Healing Boutique offers products and services like wig fittings and comfort items
Music therapy services to reduce anxiety and support emotional healing
Smoking cessation program to provide the tools and support you need to quit tobacco

Your upper gastrointestinal cancer team

When it comes to GI cancer, coordinated care matters. Our upper gastrointestinal cancer specialists include gastroenterologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists and other experts who work together to create a treatment plan tailored to you.

Stephen Ramey Sr., MD

Radiation Oncology
Accepting New Patients
R. Sidney Smith, MD

Gastroenterology
Accepting New Patients
Lisa Burgess, FNP

Gastroenterology
Accepting New Patients
Gene Saylors, MD

Hematology Oncology, Benign Hematology, Hematology, Medical Oncology, Breast Medical Oncology, Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Cutaneous (Skin) Medical Oncology, Thoracic Medical Oncology
Accepting New Patients
Charles S. Holladay, MD

Hematology Oncology, Benign Hematology, Hematology, Medical Oncology, Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Neuro-Oncology, Head and Neck Medical Oncology, Thoracic Medical Oncology, Sarcoma Medical Oncology
Brian Beaty, MD

Radiation Oncology
Annette Cruz, PAC

Radiation Oncology
Accepting New Patients
Kristen Forrest Miller, MD

Gastroenterology
Accepting New Patients
Gregory Goodear, MD

Gastroenterology
Bradley DePaoli, MD

Radiation Oncology
Accepting New Patients
Brian Greenwell, MD

Blood and Marrow Transplant, Hematology Oncology, Benign Hematology, Hematology, Medical Oncology, Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Thoracic Medical Oncology
Accepting New Patients
Andrew Wolf, MD

Gastroenterology

4.8 of 5 stars
Accepting New Patients
Brian Lingerfelt, MD

Hematology Oncology, Benign Hematology, Hematology, Medical Oncology, Breast Medical Oncology, Urologic Oncology, Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Neuro-Oncology, Head and Neck Medical Oncology, Thoracic Medical Oncology
Accepting New Patients
Douglas Michaelsen, MD

Hematology Oncology, Benign Hematology, Hematology, Medical Oncology, Urologic Oncology, Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Neuro-Oncology, Cutaneous (Skin) Medical Oncology, Head and Neck Medical Oncology, Thoracic Medical Oncology, Sarcoma Medical Oncology
Accepting New Patients
Nicholas Schmidt Jr., MD

Benign Hematology, Hematology, Medical Oncology, Hematology Oncology, Breast Medical Oncology, Urologic Oncology, Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Neuro-Oncology, Thoracic Medical Oncology
Accepting New Patients
Jonathan Reichstein, MD

Gastroenterology

5 of 5 stars
Accepting New Patients
Shelly Shand, MD

Medical Oncology, Hematology, Benign Hematology, Hematology Oncology, Breast Medical Oncology, Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Cutaneous (Skin) Medical Oncology, Head and Neck Medical Oncology
Accepting New Patients
George Geils Jr., MD

Blood and Marrow Transplant, Hematology Oncology, Benign Hematology, Hematology, Medical Oncology, Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Thoracic Medical Oncology
Accepting New Patients
Bernardo Franssen Canovas, MD

Breast Surgical Oncology, Breast Surgery, Surgical Oncology

4.9 of 5 stars
Accepting New Patients
Julia Saylors, MD

Hematology Oncology, Benign Hematology, Hematology, Medical Oncology, Breast Medical Oncology, Urologic Oncology, Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Cutaneous (Skin) Medical Oncology, Head and Neck Medical Oncology, Thoracic Medical Oncology
Accepting New Patients
Ashley Jeter, MD

Benign Hematology, Hematology, Medical Oncology, Hematology Oncology, Breast Medical Oncology, Urologic Oncology, Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Cutaneous (Skin) Medical Oncology, Head and Neck Medical Oncology, Thoracic Medical Oncology
Michael Hall, MD

Radiation Oncology
Accepting New Patients
Robert Moran, MD

Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Pancreatobiliary Diseases
Accepting New Patients
Stanley Wilson, MD

Surgical Oncology, Breast Surgery, General Surgery

5 of 5 stars
Accepting New Patients
Daniel Kirchoff, MD

Breast Surgical Oncology, Breast Surgery, Surgical Oncology

5 of 5 stars
Accepting New Patients
David Florez, MD

Gastroenterology
Accepting New Patients
Haily Vora, MD

Gastroenterology
Accepting New Patients
Christopher Lawrence, MD

Gastroenterology
Accepting New Patients
Marc Noble, MD

Gastroenterology, Pancreatobiliary Diseases
Accepting New Patients
Jeffrey Basile, MD

Gastroenterology
Accepting New Patients
Nathan Shores, MD

Transplant Hepatology, Gastroenterology
Accepting New Patients
Lee Royall, MD

Gastroenterology

Upper gastrointestinal cancer locations

You shouldn’t have to travel far for specialized cancer care. Our upper gastrointestinal cancer team offers coordinated, expert services across the greater Charleston region, including in Charleston, Mount Pleasant and Summerville, making it easier to access the care you need close to home.

Related services & specialties

Blood cancer

Comprehensive care for blood cancers, including leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma.
Brain & spine cancer

Advanced diagnosis and specialized care for brain and spine cancers.
Breast cancer

Support at every stage of breast cancer, starting with advanced screening, a precise diagnosis and comprehensive treatment.
Colorectal cancer

Advanced screening, diagnosis and treatment for colon and rectal cancers.
Gastrointestinal cancer

Comprehensive care for cancer of the digestive system; including the esophagus, stomach, liver, colon and rectum cancer.
Gynecologic cancer

Comprehensive gynecologic cancer care, including expert treatment for cervical, ovarian and uterine cancers.
Head & neck cancer

Comprehensive care for head and neck cancers, including nose, mouth and throat cancer.
Lung cancer

Personalized lung cancer care with surgery, radiation and oncology support.
Melanoma & skin cancer

Expert skin cancer and melanoma care, with advanced diagnosis, clinical trials, immunotherapy and more.