GI Surgeon Explains Oesophageal Cancer, Symptoms, and Treatment

 Food is swallowed directly into the oesophagus, which is a long tube that connects the throat (pharynx) to the stomach. The oesophagus transports food and liquid in a span of seconds using muscle strength. After a change in the DNA, it causes abnormal cells to expand. Cancer may develop on the inner wall of the oesophagus, says a renowned gastroenterologist in Kolkata. Each year, approximately 18,000 new cases of oesophageal cancer are diagnosed across the country, the majority of which are men. Oesophageal cancer, like other gastrointestinal cancers, can be difficult to identify until it has metastasized.

What are Its Types and Who is at Risk?

Adenocarcinoma (which starts in glandular cells) and squamous cell carcinoma (which begins in squamous cells) are the two most commonly occurring oesophageal cancers. Cigarette smoking is a significant risk factor for both types. Oesophageal adenocarcinoma and long-term gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), also known as acid reflux or heartburn, have a close correlation.

Barrett's oesophagus is a disease that occurs when GERD permanently changes the lining of the oesophagus. People with this disease, as well as those who are obese, have a higher risk of developing adenocarcinoma. According to the GI surgeon in Kolkata, excessive alcohol consumption, a poor diet, poor oral hygiene, and ingestion of tobacco products have all been linked to oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

What are Its Symptoms?

Difficulty swallowing is one of the first signs of oesophageal cancer. Swallowing becomes difficult, initially to solids and then progressively to liquids as the tumour expands and blocks the oesophagus, resulting in the regurgitation of food and liquids. Patients with advanced disease can experience weight loss and weakness as a result of their inability to eat.

What is the Treatment for Oesophageal Cancer?

Treatment is multimodality, with surgery being the definitive modality. Depending upon the stage of disease Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy maybe added before or after surgery for better outcome. Surgery involves esophagectomy, or the removal of all or part of the oesophagus, and it is the most common surgical technique used by the gastro oncosurgeon in Kolkata. During surgery the extracted part of the oesophagus can be replaced with a portion of the stomach to regain swallowing ability. In case the stomach cannot be used or is not available, a portion of the large intestine can be used to bridge the gap.