Oesophageal Tumours.
Tumours of the oesophagus may be benign or malignant. The incidence of oesophageal cancer in Australia is rising. Early investigation and prompt treatment significantly improve outcomes.
Abnormal growths of the oesophagus requiring prompt assessment.
The oesophagus, also called the gullet or food pipe, connects the throat to the stomach. Tumours of the oesophagus are classified as benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Only a small proportion are benign.
Oesophageal cancer rates in Australia have been rising in recent decades. Known risk factors include chronic reflux, Barrett's oesophagus, smoking, high alcohol intake and obesity. Early detection dramatically improves the likelihood of successful treatment.
Important
If you have been told a growth or lesion has been found in your oesophagus, please contact us so an early surgical consultation can be arranged and next steps discussed.
Symptoms to be aware of.
Small oesophageal tumours may produce no symptoms. As they enlarge, symptoms typically emerge.
- Difficulty swallowing (food sticking behind the breast bone)
- Chest pain
- New onset or worsening heartburn and reflux
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Persistent cough or hoarse voice
- Regurgitation of food
Difficulty swallowing combined with weight loss or a change in the character of existing reflux requires urgent investigation.
Investigating a suspected oesophageal tumour.
Gastroscopy and biopsy
A camera is passed through the mouth to directly visualise the oesophagus. If a tumour or abnormal area is found, a tissue biopsy is taken during the same procedure. Biopsy results confirm whether the growth is benign or malignant and guide further management.
CT scan
Used to assess the extent of a tumour and whether it has spread to surrounding structures or lymph nodes. Typically required before any surgery for oesophageal cancer.
PET scan
May be used alongside CT to detect disease spread to distant sites. Often part of the tests used to determine how extensive a confirmed oesophageal cancer is (staging).
Endoscopic ultrasound
Allows assessment of the depth of tumour invasion into the oesophageal wall and involvement of nearby lymph nodes, which guides the choice of treatment.
Treatment is tailored to the type, location and extent of the tumour.
Endoscopic removal
Small, early-stage tumours confined to the superficial layer of the oesophagus may be removed during gastroscopy using techniques that remove the tumour through the endoscope itself (known as EMR or ESD), avoiding the need for open surgery.
Oesophagectomy
Surgical removal of part or all of the oesophagus. Performed for tumours that cannot be removed endoscopically. This major surgery is undertaken in a coordinated setting with anaesthetic, intensive care and nutritional support.
Chemotherapy and radiotherapy
Many oesophageal cancers are treated with chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy, either before surgery to shrink the tumour, or as the primary treatment when surgery is not appropriate.
Multidisciplinary coordination
Oesophageal cancer management involves oncologists, gastroenterologists, radiologists and surgeons working together. At Meridian, your surgical team coordinates care across all relevant specialties throughout your treatment.
Oesophageal tumour assessment and surgery are managed within the Upper GI & Surgical Care pathway. Patients proceeding to surgery complete the Meridian Foundation Program, our structured preparation phase that optimises health, nutrition, understanding and readiness before the operation. Referrals are welcomed from GPs and gastroenterologists. Self-referral is also appropriate.