Overview:
Esophageal cancer occurs when malignant cells form within the lining of the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach, develop and grow, forming a tumor. It is often linked to chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease, smoking, or Barrett’s esophagus. While less common than other major cancers, esophageal cancer is often aggressive, diagnosed in later stages, and can affect swallowing, digestion, and overall health.
Symptoms:
Symptoms include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, hoarseness, persistent cough, and unintended weight loss.
Treatments/Procedures:
Treatment depends on the cancer stage. Common options include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy.
If the cancer has not spread, surgery (esophagectomy) is the primary treatment, often combined with chemotherapy and radiation. Minimally invasive techniques, such as robotic laparoscopic and thoracoscopic procedures, offer benefits to patients like reduced pain and faster recovery.
For advanced cases or patients unable to undergo surgery, chemotherapy and radiation are the main treatments. Palliative procedures help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Surgery
- Esophagectomy (robotic, minimally invasive or open)
- Endoscopic mucosal or submucosal resection
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapy
Palliative & Supportive Procedures
- Esophageal stent placement (to aid swallowing)
- Feeding tube placement (to boost nutrition)
- Palliative radiation or chemotherapy