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Esophageal Cancer: Surgery Or Not?

Posted by rickho @rickho, Feb 19 2:59pm

I just completed my 8 Chemo and 28 radiation treatments with a follow up Pet Scan. My wife and I were excited with the images when compared to the 1st pet scan that showed cancer in the lower 3rd of the esophagus as well as in a couple of limpnodes located in the area. Our radiologist showed us the images and said it showed absolutely nothing now. We felt a EGD with a biopsy would be the next logical step but the surgeon who would be performing the surgery really wasn't receptive to it. She is probably the best in our area and performs a high volume of these surgeries annually. Her comment being "Even if the test comes back clear, the cancer returns 50 % of the time". So now I'm in the position of trying to make a decision to go with the surgery or not. I'm 70 years old, in good health. I'm just struggling with what I should do. I know it's not a easy surgery or recovery. I'm not afraid of the fight, I just don't know if I need to make it

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sclaiborn | @sclaiborn | Feb 20 7:27am

I was in your box about two years ago. Every situation is different, and I can’t know what’s best for you, but I went for the surgery. It was tough but probably not as bad as advertised. I feel like qualifying for surgery was a gift and I’m so happy I took it. I don’t know what comes next but all good for now. Best to you whatever you do. Keep us posted!

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dave640 | @dave640 | Feb 20 6:53am

My feeling is that you will not be denied the surgery. It is part of standard of care for your illness.

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rickho | @rickho | Feb 20 6:50am
In reply to @jrkbls "I had a very similar experience, I was 72 at the time with esophageal cancer. The..." + (show)
@jrkbls

I had a very similar experience,
I was 72 at the time with esophageal cancer.
The surgeon wanted to preform the operation. The operation was scheduled.
I requested a second opinion which was completed with a EGD & Biopsy. He declared that the operation was not need.
I did not have the operation. That was 16 months ago.
I have ct scans, blood tests EGD regularly scheduled.
So far my cancer is in remission.
Time will tell if this was a good decision.

Jump to this post

Thank you for sharing your experience. I'm wondering if I do get the EGD with a biopsy and it comes back clear of cancer -is there a chance the insurance company could then deny me the option of surgery?I'm certainly hoping the best for you. God willing you remain in remission.

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dave640 | @dave640 | Feb 20 6:43am

If you have the operation, what are the odds of a recurrence?
Still 50-50? I can't remember.

My wife had the operation quite successfully and had pCR. We regarded her as NED at that moment.

On her first subsequent scan, 4-5 months later, she had a recurrence (in two retroperitoneal lymph nodes)
So, back to chemo, radiation, and immunotherapy.

My suggestion would be to get on immunotherapy yesterday--as soon as possible and do not extend any waiting periods. By that I mean, if you're going to have the operation, do it as soon as possible, and always get your scans at the earliest date possible.

Idk the answer to your question. Tough call.

Well wishes,

Dave

P.S. Check out SmartPatients.com

REPLY
jrkbls | @jrkbls | Feb 20 5:24am

I had a very similar experience,
I was 72 at the time with esophageal cancer.
The surgeon wanted to preform the operation. The operation was scheduled.
I requested a second opinion which was completed with a EGD & Biopsy. He declared that the operation was not need.
I did not have the operation. That was 16 months ago.
I have ct scans, blood tests EGD regularly scheduled.
So far my cancer is in remission.
Time will tell if this was a good decision.

REPLY
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