Health & Medical

11 Best Biliary Tract Cancer Specialists in Boston for 2024

Navigating a biliary tract cancer diagnosis can be daunting, but finding the right specialist makes all the difference.

Boston, renowned for its world-class medical facilities, boasts some of the best doctors specializing in this complex field.

These experts are not only affiliated with prestigious institutions but also bring years of experience and advanced training to their practice.

The city’s medical community is known for its collaborative approach, often involving multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care.

This synergy allows for innovative treatments and personalized care plans, addressing each patient’s unique needs. As such, patients benefit from the latest advancements and a holistic approach to treatment.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 11 biliary tract cancer doctors in Boston, highlighting their expertise and contributions to the field.

Whether you’re seeking a second opinion or beginning your treatment journey, these specialists are equipped to provide the highest level of care.

Top 10 Best Biliary Tract Cancer Doctors in Boston

In Boston, there are several esteemed healthcare institutions and specialists dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of biliary tract cancer.

This type of cancer affects the bile ducts and gallbladder and requires a multidisciplinary approach for optimal care.

Here’s a list of the top 10 best biliary tract cancer specialists in Boston, renowned for their expertise in diagnosing and treating this complex condition:

1. Dr. Kenneth Tanabe, MD

Dr. Kenneth Tanabe, MD
  • Location: Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA 02114
  • Contact: (978) 531-4200
  • Specialties: Biliary Tract Cancer, General Surgery, Surgical Oncology
  • Education: Graduated from the University of California at Berkeley
  • Board Certification: American Board of Surgery
  • Affiliations: Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
  • Care Approach: Dr. Tanabe emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, collaborating with various specialists to ensure comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s needs.He is known for actively involving patients in their treatment decisions and prioritizing clear communication.
  • Community Impact: Renowned for his dedication to patient education and outreach, Dr. Tanabe participates in community seminars to raise awareness about biliary tract cancers and preventive measures, enhancing overall community health literacy.

2. Dr. Thomas Clancy, MD

Dr. Thomas Clancy, MD
  • Location: Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115
  • Contact: (617) 732-6600
  • Specialties: Biliary Tract Cancer, Surgical Oncology
  • Education: Graduated from Harvard Medical School
  • Board Certification: American Board of Medical Specialties, American Board of Surgery
  • Affiliations: Brigham and Women’s Hospital
  • Care Approach: Dr. Clancy focuses on personalized treatment strategies and compassionate patient care.He takes the time to explain complex medical information, ensuring patients understand their options and feel supported throughout their treatment journey.
  • Community Impact: Actively involved in local cancer support groups, Dr. Clancy promotes awareness and advocacy for patients battling biliary tract cancer, helping to foster a supportive environment in the Boston community.

3. Dr. Theodore Hong, MD

Dr. Theodore Hong, MD
  • Location: Massachusetts General Hospital, 100 Blossom St, Boston, MA 02114
  • Contact: (617) 726-2000
  • Specialties: Radiation Oncology, Biliary Tract Cancer
  • Education: Graduated from the University of Connecticut
  • Board Certification: American Board of Radiology
  • Affiliations: Massachusetts General Hospital, Newton-Wellesley Hospital
  • Care Approach: Dr. Hong adopts a patient-centered approach, utilizing advanced radiation techniques tailored to individual treatment plans while ensuring that patients are involved in the decision-making process regarding their care.
  • Community Impact: He engages in educational outreach initiatives aimed at increasing awareness of cancer treatment options and resources available to patients, significantly impacting public understanding of cancer care in Boston.

4. Dr. Colin Weekes, MD

Dr. Colin Weekes, MD
  • Location: Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA 02114
  • Contact: (617) 726-2000
  • Specialties: Medical Oncology, Biliary Tract Cancer
  • Education: Graduated from the University of Nebraska at Kearney
  • Board Certification: American Board of Internal Medicine
  • Affiliations: Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
  • Care Approach: Dr. Weekes is committed to holistic care, focusing on both the physical and emotional well-being of his patients.He strives to create a supportive environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns and treatment options.
  • Community Impact: He frequently participates in local health fairs and community forums to share knowledge about cancer prevention and treatment, actively contributing to the health education of the Boston community.

5. Dr. Jill Allen, MD

Dr. Jill Allen, MD
  • Location: Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA 02114
  • Contact: (617) 726-2000
  • Specialties: Medical Oncology, Biliary Tract Cancer
  • Education: Graduated from Rutgers New Jersey Medical School
  • Board Certification: American Board of Internal Medicine
  • Affiliations: Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
  • Care Approach: Dr. Allen prioritizes patient empowerment and education, ensuring that his patients are informed about their treatment options and feel supported throughout their journey.He is known for his compassionate bedside manner and attentive care.
  • Community Impact: Through his involvement in local cancer awareness initiatives, Dr. Allen helps to raise funds and support for cancer research, fostering a sense of community and hope among patients and families affected by cancer.

6. Dr. Joseph Franses, MD

Dr. Joseph Franses, MD
  • Location: Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA 02114
  • Contact: (617) 726-2000
  • Specialties: Medical Oncology, Biliary Tract Cancer
  • Education: Graduated from Harvard University
  • Board Certification: American Board of Internal Medicine
  • Affiliations: Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
  • Care Approach: Dr. Franses emphasizes a comprehensive approach to oncology care, integrating the latest research findings with personalized treatment strategies to optimize patient outcomes.His focus on communication ensures that patients are well-informed throughout their treatment process.
  • Community Impact: He is involved in community outreach programs that provide education on cancer prevention and early detection, helping to empower individuals to take charge of their health.

7. Dr. Carlos Del-Castillo, MD

Dr. Carlos Del-Castillo, MD
  • Location: Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA 02114
  • Contact: (617) 726-2000
  • Specialties: General Surgery, Biliary Tract Cancer
  • Education: Graduated from Universidad Autonoma De Baja California
  • Board Certification: American Board of Surgery
  • Affiliations: Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
  • Care Approach: Dr. Del-Castillo is dedicated to providing high-quality surgical care, focusing on minimally invasive techniques and recovery-centered approaches.He believes in establishing strong patient-doctor relationships to enhance the treatment experience.
  • Community Impact: He frequently collaborates with local organizations to provide surgical workshops and health screenings, aiming to improve access to surgical care and education in underserved communities.

8. Dr. Jeffrey Clark, MD

Dr. Jeffrey Clark, MD
  • Location: Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA 02114
  • Contact: (617) 726-2000
  • Specialties: Medical Oncology, Biliary Tract Cancer
  • Education: Graduated from Tufts University
  • Board Certification: American Board of Internal Medicine
  • Affiliations: Massachusetts General Hospital, Newton-Wellesley Hospital
  • Care Approach: Dr. Clark focuses on comprehensive cancer care, utilizing his extensive experience to tailor treatment plans that address the unique needs of each patient while fostering a supportive and informative environment.
  • Community Impact: An active participant in community health initiatives, Dr. Clark dedicates his time to educating the public about cancer and advocating for improved healthcare access, which significantly impacts the Boston community.

9. Dr. Motaz Qadan, MD

Dr. Motaz Qadan, MD
  • Location: Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA 02114
  • Contact: (617) 726-2000
  • Specialties: Surgical Oncology, Biliary Tract Cancer
  • Education: Graduated from the University of Edinburgh
  • Board Certification: American Board of Surgery
  • Affiliations: Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
  • Care Approach: Dr. Qadan employs a collaborative treatment approach, integrating surgical expertise with ongoing patient support to navigate the complexities of cancer treatment. His dedication to individualized care is evident in his patient interactions.
  • Community Impact: Actively engaged in local cancer support groups, Dr. Qadan enhances community awareness and provides guidance to patients and families, fostering a strong support network for those affected by biliary tract cancer.

10. Dr. Francis Nugent, MD

Dr. Francis Nugent, MD
  • Location: Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, 41 Mall Rd, Burlington, MA 01805
  • Contact: (781) 744-8400
  • Specialties: Hematology, Oncology, Biliary Tract Cancer
  • Education: Graduated from Albany Medical College
  • Board Certification: American Board of Internal Medicine
  • Affiliations: Lahey Hospital and Medical Center
  • Care Approach: Dr. Nugent focuses on a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plans, ensuring patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their specific conditions. His empathetic communication style enhances patient trust and comfort.
  • Community Impact: Through his active participation in community health initiatives and cancer awareness programs, Dr. Nugent strives to improve access to care and educate the public about biliary tract cancer, significantly impacting public health in the Burlington area.

11. Dr. Michael Postow, MD

Dr. Michael Postow, MD
  • Location: Beebe Medical Center, Montvale, NJ 07645 (frequent Boston visitor)
  • Contact: (201) 391-1000
  • Specialties: Medical Oncology, Biliary Tract Cancer
  • Education: Graduated from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
  • Board Certification: American Board of Internal Medicine
  • Affiliations: Beebe Medical Center, Boca Raton Regional Hospital
  • Care Approach: Dr. Postow emphasizes a holistic view of cancer treatment, integrating various therapeutic modalities while ensuring that each patient’s unique circumstances are considered. He prioritizes compassionate care and patient education.
  • Community Impact: Dr. Postow engages with local health organizations to provide educational sessions on cancer treatment options, thereby raising awareness and fostering a more informed community regarding cancer care resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the New Treatment for Biliary Cancer?

New treatments for biliary cancer include targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and advances in radiation techniques, often personalized based on the patient’s genetic profile and tumor characteristics.

What Type of Oncologist Treats Bile Duct Cancer?

Bile duct cancer is primarily treated by medical oncologists specializing in gastrointestinal cancers, surgical oncologists who perform surgery on bile ducts, and radiation oncologists who provide radiation therapy.

Is There Any Hope for Bile Duct Cancer?

Yes, there is hope for bile duct cancer patients, especially with early detection and advancements in treatment options, including surgery, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, which have improved survival rates.

What Are the Breakthroughs for Bile Duct Cancer?

Recent breakthroughs include the development of targeted therapies like IDH1 inhibitors, advancements in immunotherapy, and improved surgical techniques, which enhance treatment outcomes and survival rates.

What Is the Number One Cause of Bile Duct Cancer?

The number one cause of bile duct cancer is primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), a chronic liver disease, though other risk factors include bile duct cysts, liver fluke infections, and chronic hepatitis infections.

Conclusion

Navigating a biliary tract cancer diagnosis in Boston is made easier with the help of the city’s esteemed specialists.

These top doctors bring a wealth of experience, advanced training, and a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to patient care.

They focus not only on effective treatment strategies ranging from surgery to innovative therapies but also on providing holistic support tailored to individual patient needs.

This comprehensive care model fosters improved outcomes and empowers patients to make informed decisions about their treatment journeys.

Whether seeking a second opinion or beginning treatment, patients in Boston can find a supportive environment among these dedicated specialists, ensuring they receive the highest level of care.

As research and technology continue to evolve, hope remains strong for those facing biliary tract cancer, making it essential to connect with the right experts who prioritize both medical excellence and compassionate support.

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Laura Fletcher

As a public health social worker, I focus on addressing health disparities and understanding how trauma impacts health outcomes. My work involves advocating for marginalized communities, developing interventions to mitigate trauma-related health issues, and promoting policies that ensure equitable access to healthcare. By addressing these critical areas, I aim to improve overall well-being and reduce health inequities. LinkedIn

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