Esophageal cancer is a serious disease that affects thousands of people each year. Traditionally, esophageal cancer treatment involved invasive surgery to remove the affected tissue.

However, a new revolutionary method of esophagus removal has emerged that is less invasive and offers a quicker recovery time.

What is Esophageal Cancer?

Esophageal cancer is cancer that forms in the lining of the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. It is most often caused by long-term irritation of the esophagus, such as from smoking, heavy alcohol use, and acid reflux.

Symptoms of esophageal cancer include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and weight loss.

Traditional Esophageal Cancer Treatment

Traditional treatment for esophageal cancer involves invasive surgery to remove the affected tissue. This procedure, known as an esophagectomy, involves removing part or all of the esophagus, along with nearby lymph nodes and other tissue.

After surgery, patients typically spend several days in the hospital and require a long recovery period. Many patients also require follow-up treatment, such as radiation or chemotherapy.

Revolutionary Method of Esophagus Removal

A new revolutionary method of esophagus removal involves a minimally invasive surgical technique known as transoral robotic surgery (TORS). TORS is performed using a robotic system consisting of flexible arms and a high-definition camera.

The robot is controlled by a surgeon, who operates it from a console in the operating room.

The TORS procedure involves making small incisions in the patient’s mouth and inserting the robotic arms and camera through these incisions. The robotic arms are flexible and can be manipulated to reach the esophagus.

Once the robot is in place, the surgeon uses the console to control the robotic arms and camera, removing the affected tissue while minimizing damage to surrounding tissue.

The benefits of TORS for esophageal cancer removal are numerous. The procedure is less invasive than traditional surgery, which means patients experience less pain and have a quicker recovery time.

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TORS also offers better precision and accuracy than traditional surgery, which means that surgeons can remove the affected tissue while preserving more of the healthy tissue surrounding it.

Who is a Candidate for TORS?

Not all patients with esophageal cancer are candidates for TORS. In general, TORS is most effective for patients with early-stage esophageal cancer that has not spread to other parts of the body.

Patients with more advanced esophageal cancer may require traditional surgery or a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.

TORS is also not appropriate for all patients. Patients with certain medical conditions, such as obesity or severe obstructive sleep apnea, may not be able to undergo TORS due to the potential risks associated with general anesthesia.

Recovery After TORS

Patients who undergo TORS for esophageal cancer removal typically require a shorter hospital stay than those who undergo traditional surgery. In some cases, patients may be able to go home the same day as the procedure.

After surgery, patients will experience some discomfort and may require pain medication to manage their symptoms.

Patients will also need to follow a specific diet for several weeks after surgery. This may include a liquid or soft food diet to allow the esophagus to heal.

Patients will also need to avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for several weeks after surgery to allow their body to fully recover.

Conclusion

Esophageal cancer is a serious disease, but there is hope for those who are diagnosed with it.

The TORS procedure offers a less invasive and more precise method of esophagus removal that can help patients recover more quickly and with fewer complications. If you are interested in learning more about TORS for esophageal cancer removal, talk to your doctor to see if you are a candidate.