ANALYSIS OF MULTIDISCIPLINARY TEAM MEETING FOR UPPER GASTROINTESTINAL TUMOR MANAGEMENT

Abstract

The rising incidence of upper gastrointestinal (GI) tumors underscores the urgent need for effective management strategies. Often, addressing the complexities of these malignancies requires the collective expertise of multidisciplinary teams (MDTs). This systematic review endeavors to comprehensively evaluate the impact of MDT discussions on various facets of patient care, including diagnosis, tumor staging, treatment planning, and subsequent plan implementation, within the context of upper GI tumors. Inclusion criteria for the studies considered in this review encompassed investigations involving adult patients diagnosed with upper GI tumors, wherein MDT consultations occurred prior to the initiation of treatment. Specifically, studies were selected if they documented alterations in initial diagnosis, tumor staging, or treatment plans following MDT deliberations. A meticulous evaluation of retrieved titles and abstracts was independently conducted by two researchers to ensure rigorous selection criteria were met. The analysis incorporated findings from sixteen selected studies, all of which received fair-quality ratings. Notably, MDTs exhibited the capacity to effect diagnostic changes in a notable proportion of cases, ranging from 18.4% to 26.9%. Impressively, MDTs consistently achieved accurate diagnoses in 89% to 93.5% of cases reviewed. Treatment plan modifications were also observed, with adjustments made in 23.0% to 41.7% of cases, driven by various factors including patient preferences and existing comorbidities. Equally significant is the high rate of implementation of MDT decisions, ranging from 90% to 100% across the studies reviewed. These findings collectively underscore the pivotal role played by MDT meetings in influencing diagnoses and treatment plans for a substantial number of patients grappling with upper GI tumors. Furthermore, the consistent implementation of treatment plans formulated by MDTs underscores their effectiveness in guiding patient care. In light of these outcomes, it becomes evident that MDT discussions are indispensable for optimizing management strategies and ultimately enhancing patient outcomes in the realm of upper GI tumor management. Therefore, it is imperative that all patients diagnosed with upper GI tumors undergo MDT consultations to ensure comprehensive and tailored care delivery.