Treatment of esophageal cancer
Sihvo, E.; Anttonen, A.; Huuhtanen, R.
Duodecim; laaketieteellinen aikakauskirja 130(6): 565-572
2014
ISSN/ISBN: 0012-7183 PMID: 24724455 Document Number: 674059
Treatment of choice for esophageal cancer requires multidisciplinary collaboration and requires careful assessment of the stage of the tumor and the patient's condition. When the cancer has extended or if the patient will not tolerate burdensome treatments, the possibilities of oncological therapies must be evaluated. The ability to eat must be secured and the quality of life optimized by using palliative means. Surgery still plays a central role in striving for curative treatment. Surgical techniques and results have improved, and the five-year life expectancy of patients having undergone surgery is over 40%.