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Esophageal cancer
The incidence of esophageal cancer is on the rise in the United States . We are now seeing it in otherwise healthy younger patients who exhibit none of the usual risk factors. Previously associated with smoking and alcohol, the disease has changed significantly during the past decade. We now link it to gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), which occurs when acidic stomach contents back-flow, or reflux, into the esophagus. The advent of improved diagnostic tools, new surgical procedures, including robotic and other minimally invasive techniques, and the addition of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, bring new hope to patients with esophageal cancer. We offer comprehensive evaluation of all stages of esophageal cancer. Our multidisciplinary team then develops a treatment plan and coordinates all care in a timely and efficient manner.
Benign esophageal diseases and motility disorders
Esophageal illnesses and diseases vary widely, and their diagnosis and management can be challenging. Once identified, we treat the majority of esophageal disorders with minimally invasive techniques.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when acidic stomach contents backflow, or reflux, into the esophagus. Common symptoms include heartburn, regurgitation, reflux-induced cough or asthma, and difficulty swallowing due to esophageal scarring and narrowing.
Esophageal motility disorders are characterized by uncoordinated muscle contractions along the esophagus that prohibit an individual from swallowing efficiently.
One such disorder, called achalasia, occurs when the muscle at the lower end of the esophagus prevents food from entering the stomach. Also, the muscle along the lower half of the esophagus may not contract properly to propel food down the esophagus. These abnormalities cause food to remain in the esophagus. This can lead to lung infections or breathing disorders. Patients who do not respond to medical therapy, and younger patients who want to avoid starting a life-long GERD medication program, may be candidates for surgical correction of the esophageal anti-reflux mechanism. Our surgeons typically perform this minimally invasive procedure through small incisions in the abdomen. However, for some patients with very advanced disease, more extensive procedures may be required. Our surgeons have the experience to employ these methods when necessary.
Esophageal diverticulum, resembles a small hernia or pouch protruding out through the wall of the esophagus. This protrusion traps food and can cause swallowing difficulties, bad breath, regurgitation, breathing disorders or infections. Our surgeons treat achalasia and esophageal diverticula with minimally invasive and robotic techniques designed to remedy each disorder and alleviate underlying causes. Benign esophageal cysts and tumors can cause difficulty swallowing and breathing and can even cause chest pains. Our surgeons remove these growths by using minimally invasive techniques including VATS and robotic surgery.
Areas of Specialty