Understanding Esophageal Cancer: Signs, Symptoms, and Surgical Treatment
Esophageal Cancer is a growing concern in Pakistan, particularly in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, and neighboring Afghanistan.
The survival rate for patients diagnosed with this type of cancer is alarmingly low, but with proper treatment at a reputable hospital like Kulsum International Hospital, the chances of survival for five years can increase significantly to 40%. In this blog post, we will delve into the signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer, the available treatment options, and the effectiveness of keyhole surgery as a minimally invasive approach.
Signs and Symptoms The primary symptom of esophageal cancer is progressive difficulty in swallowing food. Over a span of 2-3 months, patients may find it challenging to eat solid food, eventually only being able to consume liquids. If left untreated, this can lead to severe weight loss and further complications.
Available Treatment Options The three main treatment modalities for esophageal cancer are surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Surgery is considered the most effective option when the cancer is diagnosed at an early stage. It involves removing the cancerous part of the esophagus and reconstructing the remaining healthy portions. For cases diagnosed at stage 2 or 3, sandwich therapy, which combines chemotherapy and surgery, followed by more chemotherapy, is recommended. Radiotherapy can also be combined with chemotherapy at any stage to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment.
Keyhole Surgery for Esophageal Cancer One common question raised by patients is whether cancer surgery can be performed using minimally invasive, keyhole/laparoscopic procedures. The answer is a resounding yes. Brig. (R) Prof. Dr. Asif Asghar, a renowned Chest Surgeon at Kulsum International Hospital, explains that keyhole surgery is highly effective for treating esophageal cancer. This approach involves making small incisions on the stomach, chest, and neck, through which specialized instruments and a camera are inserted to perform the surgery. Keyhole surgery offers numerous benefits over open surgery, including quicker recovery and reduced risk of complications.
Another common concern is the removal of the esophageal tube and its impact on the patient’s ability to consume food and drink. During the surgery, the cancerous part of the esophagus is removed, and a new pathway is created by connecting the stomach directly to the throat. This ensures that the patient can continue to eat and drink without difficulty.
Procedure and Recovery Keyhole surgery for esophageal cancer typically takes around 3-4 hours to complete under general anesthesia. After the surgery, patients are closely monitored in the ICU for 1-2 days before being transferred to a regular room or ward for further recovery. The patient can start a liquid diet within 3-4 days after the operation, following which they undergo necessary tests and are discharged.
Esophageal cancer is a serious condition, but with early detection and appropriate treatment, the chances of survival can improve significantly. Kulsum International Hospital, with its expert team and advanced facilities, offers top-notch care and specializes in keyhole surgery for esophageal cancer.
By raising awareness about the signs, symptoms, and available treatment options, we aim to educate the general public and empower them to make informed decisions regarding their health.
If you or a loved one are experiencing difficulty swallowing or other concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical attention and consult with a reputable healthcare provider.