Treatment(s) for esophageal cancer depend upon the type of esophageal cancer, the extent of the tumors, the locations, and the general condition of the patient. These treatments generally fall into four major categories.
- Endoscopic treatments and procedures – earlier stage Esophageal Cancer
- Surgery – later stage
- Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR)
- Esophagectomy
- Palliative surgery
- Chemotherapy – almost always
- Systematic chemotherapy
- May or may not be given with radiation therapy (chemoradiation)
- Radiation therapy - later stage
- External beam radiation
- Brachytherapy
- May or may not be given with chemotherapy (chemoradiation)
Clinical Trials are also available, but are not recommended as primary means of treatment. Consult your doctor for available treatment.
Within each type of treatment, there are various options that may be appropriate for the patient, depending on staging and level of health.
Ask your Doctor Recommended Questions before electing to move forward with any treatment.
