Esophageal Cancer: Surgery Or Not?

Posted by rickho @rickho, Feb 19, 2024

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

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Esophageal Cancer Support Group.

courtney5 | @courtney5 | 6 days ago

In reply to @gdj "It wouldn't take my phone when I just tried. Let's see if this works / 605-484-3319" + (show)

Thank you! I appreciate you being willing to talk to them so much! I have passed your number along to my friends and hope you all are able to connect!

etomami | @etomami | 5 days ago

In reply to @lionsfan "I meant to say minimally invasive. That's the optomist in me coming out. The incisions were..." + (show)

Well as it was explained to us by the thoracic sx. Ivor Lewis sx, which is my husbands only sx option due to size and location of mass, is an 8 hr operation needing the assistance of a surgical oncologist. This is the sx he has declined due to recovery and quality of life. Do I agree??? Not my choice. I will honor and stand by his decision
We are 2 FLOT trtmts down 2 to go. Wait 6 wks for a PET then start radiation x 23 days with wkly chemo
So far he his swallowing and eating has improved. We appreciate all the comments and your stories. You are all in our prayers. One day at a time!!!

etomami | @etomami | 5 days ago

In reply to @deb005 "Hello, my husband had Ivor Lewis surgery also, 7 months ago..yes the surgery was rough, initially..." + (show)

Thank you for sharing. Prayers for you and your husband.

etomami | @etomami | 5 days ago

In reply to @deserthykr "I decided this week, finally and definitely, to not have the surgery. What a weight has..." + (show)

I know when my husband finally came to terms with it in both his heart and his head to not proceed with surgery, he has been at peace. He is 1/2 way through his first 4 FLOT trtmts and doing ok! Tired, but ok. Prayers going out to you

goldenshadow | @goldenshadow | 5 days ago

In reply to @etomami "I know when my husband finally came to terms with it in both his heart and..." + (show)

Hello, I hope everything works out for you. Definitely a very personal choice.

doglover888 | @doglover888 | 4 days ago

Hi Gary. How are you today? I'm good because it's finally warm and sunny.
I understand that you are trying to decide whether to have esophageal cancer surgery.
Deb

goldenshadow | @goldenshadow | 3 days ago

Hi, Scott here this is a big decision. I did have surgery but I got all the information from my doctors oncologist and surgeons. Also other patients with esophagus cancer. Also family I wanted everyone’s opinion. It’s my decision overall I had surgery because it was going to have best results for me. I’m 19 weeks post operation. I’m doing well definitely a big change in eating I eat smaller meals more often so I keep my weight. I’m holding on to my weight. It definitely takes time also to get where I am. But I believe I made the right decision. Hope this helps you. Wish the best for you!