An esophagectomy is a surgery performed to remove some or all of the esophagus.
The esophagus is the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach through which food travels.
The majority of esophagectomies are performed due to cancer of the esophagus (calledesophageal cancer).
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This article will discuss the esophagectomy procedure, what to expect, possible complications, and the recovery process.
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What Is an Esophagectomy?
An esophagectomy refers to a surgical procedure in which part or all of the esophagus is removed.
The esophagus is a tube that runs from the mouth to the stomach.
What Are the Risks?
Esophagectomy is a serious procedure and carries some risks.
Short-term risks include:
Other risks include:
Some of the complications from an esophagectomy can be life-threatening.
It is important you speak with your doctor to understand the risks.
Purpose of Esophagectomy
An esophagectomy may be performed for a number of reasons.
Most commonly, an esophagectomy is needed to treat cancer in the esophagus.
Other reasons for an esophagectomy include:
How to Prepare
Esophagectomy is major surgery and requires preparation.
Your doctor will tell you what you gotta do to prepare for your procedure.
Leading up to surgery, it is generally recommended that you attempt to stay healthy and fit.
If you smoke, your doctor will likely advise you to stop smoking.
Prior to surgery, you will attend a variety of appointments and will undergo testing.
Your doctor will guide you through this process.
You may not be able to wear things you normally do.
The day before surgery, you will be asked to fast, consuming a liquid-only diet.
You will be given instructions about when to start fasting from food and liquids prior to surgery.
Medications
In the lead up to surgery, you may be advised to stop taking certain medications.
Only stop taking the above medications if you are advised to.
If in doubt, ask your doctor.
This may not be necessary for everyone.
You may like to bring a few personal items for comfort before and after surgery.
You will:
During the Procedure
During an esophagectomy, you will be asleep.
For some people, it can take months for their digestive system to recover from surgery.
Your healthcare provider will schedule follow-up appointments to check on your healing progress.
You may also have a nurse or aide help with your recovery at home.
If you have any concerns during your recovery, you should speak with your doctor.
This may be performed due to cancer of the esophagus, or trauma to the esophagus.
The surgery carries risks, some of which may be life-threatening.
Recovery from the procedure can take time.
If you have concerns about your health or an upcoming surgery, you should speak with your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
An esophagectomy can vary in length based on the jot down of esophagectomy performed.
Surgery may range from three to six hours or even longer.
Immediately following surgery, you won’t be able to eat or drink.
Your doctor will advise you when it is safe to start eating solid foods.
Mount Sinai.Esophagectomy - open.
Medline Plus.Esophagectomy - minimally invasive.
American Cancer Society.Surgery for esophageal cancer.
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.About your esophagectomy surgery.
Stanford Health Care.Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy.
