CCRN Esophagogastrectomy

CCRN Esophagogastrectomy Overview

Esophagectomy is a surgical procedure to remove some or all of the swallowing tube between your mouth and stomach (esophagus) and then reconstruct it using part of another organ, usually the stomach. Esophagectomy is a common treatment for advanced esophageal cancer and is used occasionally for Barrett’s esophagus if aggressive precancerous cells are present. An esophagectomy may also be recommended for noncancerous conditions when prior attempts to save the esophagus have failed, such as with end-stage achalasia or strictures, or after ingestion of material that damages the lining of the esophagus.

Why It’s Performed

Esophagectomy is the main surgical treatment for esophageal cancer. It is done either to remove the cancer or to relieve symptoms.

During an open esophagectomy, the surgeon removes all or part of the esophagus through an incision in the neck, chest or abdomen. The esophagus is replaced using another organ, most commonly the stomach but occasionally the small or large intestine.

In most circumstances, esophagectomy can be done with minimally invasive surgery, either by laparoscopy, robot assisted or a combination of these approaches. When the individual situation is appropriate, these procedures are done through several small incisions and can result in reduced pain and faster recovery than conventional surgery.

Risks

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Cough
• Leakage from the surgical connection of the esophagus and stomach
• Changes in your voice
• Acid or bile reflux
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• Respiratory complications, such as pneumonia
• Swallowing difficulties (dysphagia)
• Atrial fibrillation
• Death

Follow Up Care

• Lung therapy (pulmonary rehabilitation) to prevent breathing problems
• Pain management to treat heartburn and problems with swallowing
• Nutritional assessments to help with weight loss
• Psychosocial care if needed