Esophageal Cancer

Overview

Mayo Clinic is an internationally recognized center for the treatment of esophageal cancer. Patients who come to Mayo benefit from the clinic's state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and techniques, wide array of therapeutic options, integrated approach to care and nurturing environment.

Because successful esophageal cancer treatment can be extremely complex, Mayo brings together a team of specialists that includes gastroenterologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, pain management specialists and nutritionists to assess each patient's needs. Working collaboratively, these experts provide a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plans for compassionate, individualized care.

Diagnosis

To help diagnose small cancers, Mayo Clinic gastroenterologists may use high-resolution magnifying devices that can show the structure of individual cells and even the nuclei within cells so clearly that tissue samples aren't needed. Mayo doctors also use state-of-the-art tests, including endoscopic ultrasound and PET scans to determine if cancer has penetrated into the wall of the esophagus or spread to nearby organs and lymph nodes. Read more about esophageal cancer diagnosis.

Treatment

Mayo Clinic offers a number of treatment options for esophageal cancer, ranging from outpatient endoscopic therapies for early-stage cancers to esophagectomy — surgery to remove the esophagus. Mayo Clinic is one of the world's largest and most advanced medical centers for esophageal surgery, with highly experienced cancer treatment teams. For some patients, minimally invasive esophagectomy may be an option. Read more about esophageal cancer treatment.

Palliative care

In addition to providing state-of-the-art medical care, Mayo Clinic doctors are dedicated to improving quality of life for esophageal cancer patients and their families. To this end, the clinic has developed and supports a number of programs to help people deal with the many issues that arise during and after cancer treatment.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, is ranked No. 1 in Digestive Disorders in the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings.

About Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal cancer is a serious form of cancer that develops in the esophagus, the 10-inch long tube that connects your throat and stomach. The esophagus is made up of several layers, and cancer usually starts in the innermost layer and grows outward. Symptoms, which often don't appear until late in the disease, include painful or difficult swallowing and weight loss. Read more about esophageal cancer.