For example, tumors of the thyroid gland are treated surgically but most patients also require postoperative treatment, which is coordinated by the section of endocrinology.
Similarly, the surgeons at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health have special expertise in treating patients with hormone secreting tumors of the parathyroid glands or the pancreas. These pancreatic tumors, called islet cell tumors, usually require surgical removal, however, evaluation of patients with these tumors is achieved with the help of the Section of Endocrinology and the Center for Digestive Health.