Surgical Therapies for Cancer of the Esophagus

The spectrum of surgical therapy are offered including resections employing thoracotomy, transhiatal resection, and laparoscopic esophagectomy.

Success with Esophagus Resection

We have taken an approach from a surgical perspective to tailor the operation to the patient and his or her disease.  We have been able to take this approach because we have had a very low incidence of leakage from the connection of the esophagus to the stomach after removing the cancer.  Leakage is a serious problem, and leak rates of 10 to 25% are common in the literature, even today. 

At Mass General, we have had leak rates amongst the best in the world (0% for 1980-1988). 

The division has enormous experience, as well, in using alternative replacement organs for the esophagus if the stomach is unavailable, and has also been a pioneer in colon bypass and the use of short-segment intestinal interposition for certain conditions of the esophagus in addition to malignancies. 

In addition, we are leaders in minimally invasive procedures including minimally invasive esophagectomy.