Esophageal cancer surgery is an important method used in the treatment of this type of cancer. Surgery involves removing cancerous tissue and reconstructing it with healthy tissue. After esophageal cancer surgeryIt is a critical phase in the patient's recovery process.
How is Esophageal Cancer Surgery Performed?
Esophageal cancer surgery is a procedure to remove cancerous tissue and replace it with healthy tissue. There may be more than one method for this surgery, but it is usually a very complex and challenging process.
Before the surgery, the patient's general health condition is evaluated. The patient's condition and the spread of the cancer are examined using tests. Patient, operation, anesthesia and after esophageal cancer surgery is informed about.
During the surgery, the patient is usually given general anesthesia. This ensures that the patient is unconscious and pain-free throughout the surgery.
The surgery can be done with several different techniques. One of the most common methods is esophagectomy, which is the removal of part or all of the esophagus.
Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy is minimally invasive performed using laparoscopic tools. Small incisions are made and surgical instruments and the camera are inserted through these incisions. This method can help the patient recover faster and reduce the risk of infection.
Open Surgery requires a larger incision. Through large incisions made in the chest or abdomen, the surgeon directly reaches the cancerous area and performs the necessary intervention.
The removed section of the esophagus is usually reconstructed using part of the stomach or small intestine. Reconstruction connects the esophagus to the stomach, allowing its normal function to continue.
After esophageal cancer surgery Patients are kept under observation for a while in the intensive care unit. Respiratory support, pain management and nutritional support are provided. When the patient's condition is stable, he is taken to the normal room and the recovery process continues.
Careful care is required to reduce the risk of infection in the postoperative period. Additionally, monitoring the patient's nutritional and general health status is vital to a successful recovery process.
Esophageal cancer surgery can be a high-risk and technically challenging procedure. Therefore, an experienced surgical team and a comprehensive treatment plan are required. Patients and their families must be constantly informed and supported throughout the process.
How Many Hours Does Esophageal Cancer Surgery Take?
Esophageal cancer surgery is often a complex and time-consuming procedure. The duration of this surgery can vary depending on many factors, but it usually takes between 3 and 6 hours.
Esophageal cancer surgeries can be performed with different techniques. Methods such as minimally invasive esophagectomy are less invasive and can sometimes take less time. However, these methods are also technically challenging and may take time depending on the surgeon's experience. Open surgical methods may take longer because they are performed with large incisions.
Factors such as the patient's general health condition and the stage of the cancer may also affect the surgery time. For example, if cancer has spread to surrounding tissues, these tissues also need to be cleaned, which can prolong the process.
Complications that may be encountered during the surgery may prolong the process. For example, extra care must be taken to avoid damaging other organs.
When the removed part of the esophagus needs to be reconstructed, the stomach or small intestine is usually used. This reconstruction process can significantly extend the surgery time because it is a very careful and delicate procedure.
The surgeon's experience and teamwork are among the important factors affecting the surgery time. An experienced surgeon can produce faster and more effective solutions to the difficulties that may be encountered, which can shorten the process.
After esophageal cancer surgery, patients should be transferred to normal room conditions after staying in intensive care. Patients require care for issues such as pain control and management of infection risk.
Things to Consider After Esophageal Cancer Surgery
Esophageal cancer surgery is a major surgical intervention. Therefore, it requires careful care for the patient's recovery process and subsequent quality of life. Things to consider in the postoperative period are of critical importance.
Pain experienced after surgery is normal and painkillers recommended by doctors should be used regularly. Pain management allows the patient to move more comfortably and actively participate in the healing process.
After esophageal cancer surgery, patients are fed through a feeding tube. Adequate and balanced nutrition of the patient supports healing and reduces the risk of infection. Over time, oral intake is started and the patient gradually returns to his normal diet under the guidance of a dietician.
Light physical activities are encouraged in the postoperative period. Simple exercises such as walking increase blood circulation, speeding up recovery and reducing the risk of complications. However, strenuous activities such as heavy lifting should be avoided.
Post-operative wound care is very important to prevent infection. Dressing should be done as recommended by the doctor and the wound area should be kept clean and dry. In case of any redness, discharge or pain, a doctor should be consulted.
After esophageal cancer surgeryIt is vital to act in accordance with doctor's recommendations. Since each patient's condition is different, it is recommended to follow a customized care plan.
