The oesophagus has 2 types of lining. Most of it is lined by squamous cells which are similar to our skin cells. Where the oesophagus joins the stomach, it is lined by columnar cells which are similar to the cells lining the rest of the digestive tract.
Oesophageal cancer is the cancer of the cells of the inner lining of the oesophagus.
Squamous cell Carcinoma: Cancer arising from the squamous lining part of the oesophagus.
Adenocarcinoma: Cancer arising from the columnar lining part.
In the early stages of esophageal cancer, it may not present with any symptoms. However, common symptoms include:
People with the above symptoms will need further evaluation.
Those with Barrett’s oesophagus may consider screening for oesophageal cancer.
Esophageal cancer treatment depends on the location and stage of the disease as well as the general condition of the person.
Surgical treatment combined with chemotherapy and radiotherapy may be necessary as an additional or alternative treatment.
Surgical treatment ranges from a minimally invasive approach to an open approach. The operation usually involves the removal of the diseased part of the oesophagus (oesophagectomy) and the surrounding lymph nodes. The stomach is then joined to the remaining oesophagus.
The treatment of oesophageal cancer depends on the location and stage of the disease as well as the general condition of the person. Patients with early stage disease have a better chance of survival.
The recovery will depend on the surgical approach (minimally invasive or open). After oesophagectomy, you may be monitored in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for 1-2 days. The average length of stay in the hospital is between 7-10 days.
Oesophageectomy is a major surgery. The operation involves the removal of the diseased part of the oesophagus and the surrounding lymph nodes. The stomach is then joined to the remaining oesophagus.
You will not be able to eat or drink immediately after surgery. For some patients, small sips of water may be possible after 4-5 days.
A week after surgery, you will usually have a swallow study. If the test shows good flow without a leak, you can begin eating. At first, it will be liquids and soft foods. Subsequently, you should be able to tolerate a more normal diet. You will be advised to take small frequent meals and to eat slowly and chew well.
Liver cancer is a serious health concern that can have devastating consequences. Based on the
Upon completion of liver cancer treatment, you may be relieved and yet stressed at
Most patients do not show any symptoms in the early stages of liver cancer.
Understanding Liver Cancer The human liver is a big organ found in the upper-right
Surgery is the most common treatment for oesophageal cancer. Oesophagectomy is an operation where
After a person is diagnosed with oesophageal cancer, doctors will try to determine its
Established in 2010, Nexus Surgical set out to provide safe, evidence-based, cost-effective surgical services. Our surgeons’ diverse expertise enables us to cater to a wide range of general to complex surgical conditions, from diagnosis to treatment.
Established in 2010, Nexus Surgical set out to provide safe, evidence-based, cost-effective surgical services. Our surgeons’ diverse expertise enables us to cater to a wide range of general to complex surgical conditions, from diagnosis to treatment.
Mount Elizabeth Medical Clinic:
(65) 6235 8633
Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre:
(65) 6570 2720
Mount Alvernia Hospital Medical Centre A:
(65) 6353 4855
Parkway East Medical Centre:
(65) 6440 4866
Monday – Friday : 9:00AM – 5:00PM
Saturday: 9:00AM – 1:00PM
Sunday & PH : Closed
Emergency 24hr contact number:
(65) 6333 5550