Travis E. Grotz, M.D., M.S.

Travis E. Grotz, M.D., M.S., is a surgical oncologist specializing in cancers of the gastrointestinal (GI) system and soft tissues. His approach combines precision, compassion, and the latest surgical techniques to help patients achieve the best possible outcomes. Known for his expertise in minimally invasive cancer surgery including robotic and laparoscopic procedures, Dr. Grotz also performs complex operations for advanced cancers that require highly specialized care.

Beyond the operating room, Dr. Grotz is deeply committed to research and education. He trained at two of the nation's leading cancer centers, Mayo Clinic and MD Anderson Cancer Center, and leads clinical trials at Mayo Clinic focused on improving cancer treatment, including innovative intraperitoneal therapies for abdominal cancers. His work reflects a dedication to finding better answers for patients facing rare and challenging diagnoses.

Areas of Expertise

Dr. Grotz provides individualized care for patients with a wide range of conditions, offering advanced surgical options tailored to each case. His clinical focus includes:

• Stomach (gastric) cancer: Expertise in robotic surgery, stomach-sparing procedures such as proximal gastrectomy, and advanced reconstructions like J-pouch or "neo-stomach".
• Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST): Comprehensive care from early-stage to advanced or metastatic cases.
• Peritoneal mesothelioma: Comprehensive surgical care for patients with this rare malignancy.
• HIPEC (heated chemotherapy) and other advanced therapies: For cancers that spread within the abdominal cavity (peritoneal carcinomatosis).
• Pseudomyxoma peritonei and appendiceal cancers: Complex surgical approaches for rare abdominal tumors.
• Colon, appendix, small bowel, and neuroendocrine (carcinoid) tumors: Multidisciplinary care for diverse GI cancers.
• Retroperitoneal sarcomas: Expertise in managing challenging soft tissue tumors.

Research and Leadership

Dr. Grotz's research focuses on improving surgical outcomes and expanding treatment options for abdominal cancers. He serves on editorial boards for leading journals such as the Annals of Surgical Oncology and contributes as a guest editor to several others. His leadership extends to shaping national treatment guidelines for peritoneal mesothelioma and advising nonprofit organizations dedicated to cancer advocacy and patient support.

Dr. Grotz's work reflects a simple but powerful mission: to combine advanced science with compassionate care, ensuring every patient receives hope and healing through the most effective treatments available.