It is the process of surgically removing cancerous tissue detected in the esophagus. Esophageal cancer surgeryIt is done to prevent and treat the spread of cancer. It is performed using endoscopic methods or open surgical techniques. The patient's condition and the degree of spread of the cancer are examined. Accordingly, the appropriate technique is determined and applied by the surgeons.
In Which Situations Is Esophageal Cancer Surgery Performed?
Esophageal cancer surgery, It is a method mostly used in treatment. If cancer has spread from a specific area of the esophagus to other organs or tissues, surgery is considered. Surgical removal is necessary to prevent the spread of cancer and to remove all cancer cells. If the cancer has formed a large tumor and spread to surrounding tissues, surgical intervention may be necessary. The cancer may not be responding to other treatments, such as radiation and chemotherapy.
If the results of these treatments are limited, surgical intervention may be considered. If cancer blocks the passage of food and liquids through the esophagus, surgery is required to open this blockage. Esophageal cancer surgeryIt is done by taking into consideration the general health condition of the patient and the degree of spread of the cancer. Therefore, the treatment plan for each patient is determined individually. Whether surgical intervention is required is evaluated by your doctor.
How is Esophageal Cancer Surgery Performed?
In the gastrectomy procedure, the cancerous part and some of the surrounding healthy tissue are removed. Part or all of the esophagus may be removed, along with the stomach and sometimes surrounding lymph nodes. Esophageal cancer surgery Afterwards, the stomach can replace the esophagus. Part of the small intestine may be replaced with the esophagus. In the esophageal resection procedure, only the cancerous part of the esophagus is removed. Then the two healthy ends are joined. In the early stages, when cancerous cells are found on the surface, the endoscopic method is used.
In these methods, an endoscope (a thin tube) is used to remove cancerous cells. These procedures are minimally invasive and post-operative recovery may be shorter. The surgical plan is determined by surgeons based on the patient's medical history, the stage and location of the cancer. Esophageal cancer surgery It usually aims to remove the cancer completely. However, surgery is often used in combination with other treatments. Treatments such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy may be used before or after surgery.
Recovery Process After Esophageal Cancer Surgery
For the first few days after surgery, the patient is usually monitored in the intensive care unit. During this process, the patient's vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, respiratory rate, body temperature) are closely monitored. Supportive treatments are applied when necessary. Esophageal cancer surgery Afterwards, the patient's nutrition and fluid intake are started slowly. This process usually begins in the first days after the operation and varies depending on the general condition of the patient. First, start with liquids and then move on to solid foods. The patient is encouraged to stand up as soon as possible after the operation. Mobility exercises are applied to help regain mobility. The postoperative recovery process varies depending on the patient's general health condition. It also varies depending on the type of surgery and whether there are complications.
Patients usually begin to improve within a few weeks, but full recovery may take several months. During this time, it is important for the patient to stay in touch with their doctor for regular check-ups and follow-ups. After the operation, some patients need nutritional support and nutritional supplements. This is related to the digestive system and nutrient absorption affected by the surgery. Nutritionists can create a custom diet plan to meet nutritional needs. The recovery process can involve physical as well as emotional and psychological challenges for patients. Therefore, it is important for patients and their families to receive psychological support. This support may be provided through counseling, therapy, or support groups. Recovery process after esophageal cancer surgery, It may differ in each patient. If there are signs of any complications, medical help should be sought immediately.