Ever since Torek [1] reported the first successful total esophagectomy, there has been a continuing evolution and appraisal of many different surgical techniques and approaches which are now practiced in the surgical management of this difficult cancer. Unavoidably, a lot has changed in our overall therapeutic approach based on our knowledge of imaging techniques, preoperative assessment, the efficacy of chemotherapy (CT) and radiotherapy (RT) which, when necessary, can be appropriately incorporated in the treatment planning based on the clinical setting of a given patient.
It is important to realize, however, that surgery has remained steadfast in the management of esophageal cancer when the disease is loco-regional and is amenable to a complete surgical clearance. Surgery of esophageal cancer is probably one of the most demanding and challenging procedure for the surgeon and the patient alike — with a significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in inappropriately selected patients. The approach and the extent of surgery undertaken, therefore, vary widely based on a surgeon's experience, expertise, bias, and comfort zone.
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Desai, P.B. (2010). Surgery for Cancer of the Esophagus “The Continuing Evolution”. In: Atlas of Minimally Invasive Surgery in Esophageal Carcinoma. Springer, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-84882-768-4_1
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