Treatment

When it comes to treatment options, the health care team at the John Stoddard Cancer Center will help you to make the right decision. Treatment for esophageal cancer might involve surgery, radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy. It's important to talk with your doctor about the advantages and disadvantages of each. The best treatment choice will depend on the stage of the cancer as well as your general health.

Surgery

Which surgery strategy used depends on the stage of the cancer. Surgery can also be used along with chemotherapy and/or radiation.

There are two common surgeries for this cancer. In an esophagectomy, the esophagus and nearby lymph nodes are removed. The esophagus is re-connected to the stomach -- either directly or by adding a piece taken from the large intestine.

The other surgery, esophagogastrectomy involves removing part of the lower esophagus, nearby lymph nodes, and the upper part of the stomach. The esophagus is again connected to the stomach.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy alone does not cure esophageal cancer unless radiation treatment, and in some cases surgery, are also used. Chemotherapy is used in three ways: Given along with radiation to shrink the cancer; before surgery to shrink a tumor; or to ease problems of advanced cancer.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation by itself will not cure esophageal cancer. Often, it is combined with surgery and/or chemotherapy. It is also used to relieve problems with swallowing, pain, or other symptoms of esophageal cancer.