Vandana M Sagar

Abstract Background Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) are neoplastic yet behave differently to typical cancers. Despite often being slow growing, they can lead to significant gastrointestinal complications including intestinal failure (IF). The use of home parenteral nutrition (HPN) in neoplastic conditions is rising, primarily for palliation and bridging through treatments for cancer, but remains a challenging decision with a paucity of high-grade evidence-based guidance.

Severe carcinoid syndrome and carcinoid heart disease in neuroendocrine tumours can have a significant impact on a patient’s quality of life and are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. We present a novel approach to managing a patient with medically uncontrollable carcinoid syndrome. Inferior and superior vena cava placement of transcatheter heart valves has been used to treat patients with right heart failure due to severe tricuspid and pulmonary regurgitation.

The incidence of neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) is on the rise in the UK. Patients with NETs need to be managed by a team of clinical specialties. There are a number of challenging gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations related to NETs that can occur in these patients, but a limited literature base exists to guide clinicians. Whilst life expectancy can be several years for patients with NETs, the GI symptoms can have a significant impact on their quality of life.