Esophageal Cancer

Each type of cancer has unique characteristics and responds differently when treated. Our highly trained staff and physicians combine their skills with the latest equipment and techniques to treat all forms of cancer. The webpages below contain detailed information about specific types of cancer, related issues and the treatment options available.

Esophageal Cancer

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Surgery

Surgical resection for esophageal cancer is only practical in early stage disease (I or II). Surgical resection involves major surgery. In general, the entire esophagus is removed. The stomach is then freed up from it abdominal location and brought up into the chest and connected with the lower throat.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is used both as an alternative to surgery for early stage disease and as an adjunct to surgery in more advanced cases. When radiation is used instead of surgery, relatively high doses are administered with the goal of eliminating the cancer, if possible. When radiation is used as an adjunct to surgery, it can be given either before the major operation or after. Radiation in these cases is generally confined to a more moderate dose.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is often beneficial in providing results along with both surgery and radiation. Drugs used include 5-Fluorouracil and Cisplatin.