Esophageal Cancer Treatment Options
There are several types of treatment options available for patients with esophageal cancer. Some treatments are standard (the most commonly used), and some are being tested in clinical trials. Your treatment plan will be created based on the stage and location of the cancer.
One or more of the following types of treatment may be used:
Surgery
The most common surgery to treat esophageal cancer is called an esophagectomy. It involves removing the cancerous part of the esophagus and connecting the remaining healthy portion to the stomach so you can swallow normally.
Radiation Therapy for Esophageal Cancer
The use of high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells or keep them from growing. Esophageal cancer may be treated with external beam radiation therapy or internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy).
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy drugs stop the growth of cancer cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing.
Chemoradiation Therapy
A combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy is often recommended for certain types of tumors and/or when the cancer is located in the upper esophagus.
Laser Therapy
The use of a laser beam to kill cancer cells.
Electrocoagulation
This procedure kills cancer cells using an electric current.
Nutritional Needs For Patients Undergoing Treatment for Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal cancer can make it harder for patients to eat due to having trouble swallowing. Because of this, your cancer care team will connect you with the support services you need to maintain a balanced diet throughout your esophageal cancer treatment.
Some patients may need a feeding tube (a flexible plastic tube passed through the nose or mouth into the stomach) until they can eat on their own. Your oncologist can talk with you more about this and answer any questions.
Esophageal Cancer Treatment Available in Brevard County
Treatment options should be considered carefully. Consult with an oncologist who specializes in esophageal cancer so they can determine what cancer treatment is best for you. If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with esophageal cancer, the oncologists at Cancer Care Centers of Brevard are ready to help. We have treatment centers throughout Brevard County, including Melbourne, Rockledge, Merritt Island, and Palm Bay, FL.