Esophageal Cancer Surgery

When faced with a diagnosis of esophageal cancer, the importance of expert care cannot be overstated. Dr. Aasima Boxwalla, a leading Consultant in Surgical Gastroenterology, G.I., and HPB Oncology, offers exceptional expertise, compassion, and a patient-centered approach to treating this complex condition.

Understanding Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal cancer develops in the tissues of the esophagus, the muscular tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. The disease often goes undetected in its early stages, making early diagnosis critical. Symptoms may include:

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Persistent cough or hoarseness
• Regurgitation of food

Risk factors for esophageal cancer include:

• Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or Barrett’s esophagus
• Obesity
• A family history of esophageal cancer

Dr. Aasima emphasizes the importance of early screening for those at higher risk and the use of advanced diagnostic tools such as endoscopy, biopsy, and imaging studies like CT scans and PET scans to determine the stage and spread of the cancer.

The Role of Surgery in Esophageal Cancer Treatment

Surgery is often the main treatment for esophageal cancer, especially when the tumor is localized and can be removed. Dr. Aasima’s surgical expertise ensures the precise removal of cancerous tissue while aiming to preserve as much esophageal function as possible and minimize recovery time.

Why Choose Us for Esophageal Cancer Surgery?

Dr. Aasima Boxwalla is known for her commitment to providing the highest level of care for patients facing esophageal cancer. Her approach combines advanced surgical techniques with compassionate, personalized care. Key reasons to choose Dr. Aasima include:

• Specialized Expertise: With extensive training in surgical gastroenterology and oncology, Dr. Aasima specializes in treating esophageal cancer and other gastrointestinal malignancies.
• Minimally Invasive Techniques: Dr. Aasima utilizes laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery, which offer faster recovery times, reduced pain, and smaller incisions compared to traditional open surgery.
• Comprehensive Care: Dr. Aasima works closely with oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses all aspects of the patient’s care.
• Patient-Centered Approach: Dr. Aasima ensures clear communication with patients and families, providing education and emotional support throughout the treatment process.

Surgical Options for Esophageal Cancer

Dr. Aasima tailors surgical approaches based on the cancer’s stage, location, and spread. Common procedures include:

• Esophagectomy: Removal of part or all of the esophagus, followed by reconstruction to restore the passage for food. This may involve using a portion of the stomach or intestines to create a new connection.
• Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy: A less invasive approach using laparoscopic or robotic techniques to remove the tumor, resulting in smaller incisions and quicker recovery times.
• Endoscopic Resection: For early-stage cancers, a less invasive technique that removes the tumor via endoscopy, often preserving the esophagus.

Adjuvant Therapy 

In addition to surgery, adjuvant therapy, which includes chemotherapy and radiation therapy, plays a crucial role in enhancing treatment outcomes for esophageal cancer. Post-surgical chemotherapy helps eliminate any remaining cancer cells that may not have been removed during surgery, reducing the risk of recurrence. Radiation therapy, often combined with chemotherapy, targets residual cancerous tissues in the esophageal region, particularly in cases where the tumor was large or had spread to nearby lymph nodes.

For patients with advanced or high-risk esophageal cancer, a multidisciplinary approach integrating adjuvant therapy improves survival rates and long-term prognosis. Dr. Aasima Boxwalla collaborates closely with oncologists and radiologists to tailor adjuvant therapy based on the patient’s cancer stage, overall health, and response to treatment. This comprehensive approach ensures that every patient receives personalized, evidence-based care, optimizing recovery and improving quality of life after surgery.

Post-Surgery Recovery and Support

Recovery after esophageal cancer surgery depends on the extent of the procedure and the patient’s overall health. Dr. Aasima and her team provide comprehensive post-operative care, including:

• Pain Management: Customized pain relief strategies to ensure patient comfort during recovery.
• Nutritional Support: Diet plans to aid in healing and optimize nutrition, as patients may experience difficulty swallowing post-surgery.
• Physical Rehabilitation: Exercises to help regain strength and stamina after surgery.
• Psychological Support: Counseling services and support groups to assist patients in coping with the emotional and mental challenges of recovery.

Your Journey to Recovery Starts Here

Choosing the right surgeon is essential when treating esophageal cancer. Dr. Aasima Boxwalla’s commitment to advanced surgical care, combined with her compassionate approach, makes her a trusted choice for those facing this challenging diagnosis.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with esophageal cancer, Dr. Aasima is here to guide you through every step of the treatment process. Contact her clinic today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward recovery.