Board-Certified GIST Surgeon · Los Angeles

Specialized Care for Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors

★★★★★4.9 / 5 · 120+ patient reviews

Dr. Joshua Ellenhorn, MD, FACS is one of the most respected GIST surgeons in the United States — a Clinical Professor of Surgery at Cedars-Sinai specializing in minimally invasive, organ-preserving tumor resection.

  • High-volume GIST & sarcoma surgical experience
  • Laparoscopic & robotic minimally invasive resection
  • Second opinions and complex-case referrals welcome
Dr. Joshua Ellenhorn, GIST Specialist25+ Years of Experience
★★★★★

“After being told my tumor was inoperable elsewhere, Dr. Ellenhorn removed it laparoscopically and preserved my stomach.”

Robert M. · Gastric GIST
★★★★★

“Dr. Ellenhorn explained every option clearly and never rushed us. His experience with GIST gave our family peace of mind.”

Sandra L. · Small Bowel GIST
★★★★★

“From diagnosis to recovery, the care was exceptional. I was home in days, not weeks. Truly a world-class specialist.”

James P. · Duodenal GIST
25+Years treating GIST & sarcoma
1,000sComplex tumor operations
Top 1%US News recognized surgeon
60+Surgical oncologists trained
Understanding GIST

Expertise That Comes From Focus

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors are rare, and outcomes are closely tied to how often a surgeon treats them. Dr. Ellenhorn has built his career around the surgical management of GIST and soft-tissue sarcoma, offering patients the precision and judgment that come only from experience.

Whenever possible, he uses minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic techniques to remove tumors completely while preserving healthy organ function — helping patients recover faster and return to their lives.

Dr. Ellenhorn in the operating room
Treatment Approach

Comprehensive, Minimally Invasive GIST Care

Diagnosis

Accurate Staging & Planning

Careful evaluation of tumor size, location, and risk to build a treatment plan tailored to you — including expert second opinions.

Surgery

Laparoscopic & Robotic Resection

Organ-preserving, minimally invasive removal of gastric, small bowel, and duodenal GISTs for faster recovery.

Ongoing Care

Targeted Therapy & Follow-Up

Coordination of targeted drug therapy and long-term monitoring in partnership with your oncology team.

GIST Learning Center

See the Surgery Explained

Dr. Ellenhorn maintains an educational library of real surgical videos and patient resources — including laparoscopic and robotic GIST resections — so patients and physicians can understand exactly what modern, minimally invasive care looks like.

What to Expect

Your Path to Expert GIST Care

1

Request a Consultation

Reach out online or by phone. Send your records for review — second opinions are welcome.

2

Personalized Plan

Dr. Ellenhorn reviews your imaging and pathology and discusses the best surgical approach for you.

3

Treatment & Recovery

Minimally invasive surgery when possible, with coordinated follow-up care for the long term.

Patient Stories

Trusted by Patients Nationwide

★ 4.9 / 5 · Based on 120+ patient reviews

★★★★★

“After being told my tumor was inoperable elsewhere, Dr. Ellenhorn removed it laparoscopically and preserved my stomach. I am forever grateful for his skill and calm confidence.”

Robert M.
Gastric GIST · Los Angeles
★★★★★

“Dr. Ellenhorn explained every option clearly and never rushed us. His experience with GIST gave our whole family peace of mind during a frightening time.”

Sandra L.
Small Bowel GIST · Pasadena
★★★★★

“From diagnosis to recovery, the care was exceptional. The minimally invasive surgery meant I was home in days, not weeks. Truly a world-class specialist.”

James P.
Duodenal GIST · Beverly Hills
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST)?
A GIST is a type of tumor that begins in specialized cells in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract, most often the stomach or small intestine. GISTs are rare and require care from a surgeon who treats them regularly.
Is a GIST cancerous?
GISTs range from low-risk to malignant. Even smaller tumors are typically removed and evaluated, because behavior can vary. An experienced GIST specialist can determine the right approach based on tumor size, location, and mitotic rate.
How are GISTs treated?
Surgery to remove the tumor is the primary treatment for most localized GISTs, often using minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic techniques. Targeted drug therapy (such as imatinib) may be used before or after surgery for certain cases.
Why see a dedicated GIST surgeon?
GISTs are uncommon, and outcomes are strongly linked to surgeon experience. Dr. Ellenhorn has treated a high volume of GIST cases and specializes in organ-preserving, minimally invasive resection.
Can I get a second opinion on my GIST diagnosis?
Yes. Many patients come to Dr. Ellenhorn for a second opinion to confirm their diagnosis and review all treatment options. You can request a consultation online or by phone.
★★★★★
“After being told my tumor was inoperable elsewhere, Dr. Ellenhorn removed it laparoscopically and preserved my stomach. I am forever grateful for his skill and calm confidence.”
Robert M. · Gastric GIST · Los Angeles
Get Started

Schedule a Consultation With a GIST Specialist

Whether you are newly diagnosed or seeking a second opinion, Dr. Ellenhorn is here to help you understand your options.

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