A K Kubba1, N Krasner. 1. Dept of Surgery, University of Nottingham, Liverpool, UK.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Oesophageal cancer is generally associated with late presentation and poor prognosis. Therefore palliative surgery has been largely superseded by less invasive non-surgical techniques. Once palliation is indicated, the aims of the management should be: the maintenance of oral intake, minimizing hospital stay, relief of pain, elimination of reflux and regurgitation and the prevention of aspiration. METHODS: This study was a review of all published English language data on the palliation of malignant dysphagia between 1994-1999. The Medline and Bids databases were searched and other references were derived from the material perused. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Palliative treatment for oesophageal cancer should be individualized and relate to tumour stage, size and location, the patient's medical condition and his/her personal wishes. The palliative treatment largely includes self-expanding metal stents (SEMS), laser (including photodynamic therapy (PDT)) or a combination of the two to relieve symptoms, this may be employed with or without other treatments such as radiotherapy/chemotherapy (RT/CT) with the aim of reducing tumour bulk and possibly prolonging survival. A multi-disciplinary approach is vital in patients with advanced oesophageal cancer. Copyright 2000 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.
BACKGROUND:Oesophageal cancer is generally associated with late presentation and poor prognosis. Therefore palliative surgery has been largely superseded by less invasive non-surgical techniques. Once palliation is indicated, the aims of the management should be: the maintenance of oral intake, minimizing hospital stay, relief of pain, elimination of reflux and regurgitation and the prevention of aspiration. METHODS: This study was a review of all published English language data on the palliation of malignant dysphagia between 1994-1999. The Medline and Bids databases were searched and other references were derived from the material perused. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Palliative treatment for oesophageal cancer should be individualized and relate to tumour stage, size and location, the patient's medical condition and his/her personal wishes. The palliative treatment largely includes self-expanding metal stents (SEMS), laser (including photodynamic therapy (PDT)) or a combination of the two to relieve symptoms, this may be employed with or without other treatments such as radiotherapy/chemotherapy (RT/CT) with the aim of reducing tumour bulk and possibly prolonging survival. A multi-disciplinary approach is vital in patients with advanced oesophageal cancer. Copyright 2000 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.