The oesophagus, a key muscular tube spanning about 10 inches, channels food and fluids from the mouth to the stomach for digestion, ensuring efficient nutrient transport. Despite its essential role, it's susceptible to diseases like esophageal cancer, originating from the esophageal lining cells. This cancer typically evolves slowly from precancerous esophageal tissue changes.
How Lifestyle Influences Risk Of Oesophageal Cancer
“The contemporary lifestyle significantly influences the likelihood of esophageal cancer. Risk factors like smoking, heavy alcohol intake, inadequate fruit and vegetable consumption, obesity, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) elevate the risk. Environmental exposures and chronic esophageal inflammation are additional contributors to esophageal cancer development. oesophageal symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, chest pain or discomfort, weight loss, and persistent coughing or hoarseness,” said Dr Raj Nagarkar - Managing Director and Chief of Surgical oncology and Robotic Services, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre, Nashik.
Innovative Treatment Options
“Treatment for oesophageal cancer varies according to the stage of the disease and frequently consists of radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery. Surgery is essential, especially in cases with limited tumours. In recent years, there have been significant advancements in surgical techniques for the treatment of esophageal cancer. These innovations aim to improve patient outcomes, reduce complications, and enhance the overall quality of care,” said Dr Nagarkar.
One such innovation is minimally invasive surgery, which involves performing surgical procedures through small incisions using specialised tools and a camera called a laparoscope or endoscope. Minimally invasive techniques offer several advantages over traditional open surgery, including shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times, and reduced postoperative pain.
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Robotic Assisted Surgery Offering A New Hope
Another innovative approach to oesophageal cancer surgery is robotic-assisted surgery. This advanced technology allows surgeons to perform precise, complex procedures with enhanced dexterity and control using robotic arms controlled by a computer console. Robotic-assisted surgery offers improved visualisation and flexibility, allowing for greater precision and accuracy in removing cancerous tissue while preserving surrounding healthy structures.
In addition to minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques, there has been ongoing research into novel surgical approaches for esophageal cancer, including transoral endoscopic surgery and video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). Transoral endoscopic surgery involves accessing the oesophagus through the mouth using an endoscope, allowing for the removal of tumours without the need for external incisions. VATS, on the other hand, involves accessing the chest cavity through small incisions between the ribs, enabling surgeons to perform thoracic procedures with minimal trauma to surrounding tissues.
These innovative surgical techniques offer new possibilities for the treatment of esophageal cancer, allowing for more precise tumour removal, reduced complications, and improved long-term outcomes for patients. However, it is essential to note that not all patients are candidates for these advanced procedures, and treatment decisions should be made in consultation with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals based on individual factors such as the stage and location of the tumour, overall health, and personal preferences.
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Innovations in surgical techniques have revolutionised the management of oesophageal cancer, offering new hope and improved prospects for patients diagnosed with this challenging disease. As research and technology continue to advance, the future holds promise for further advancements in surgical approaches, ultimately leading to better outcomes and enhanced quality of life for individuals affected by esophageal cancer.