Esophageal & Swallowing Diseases
University Hospitals Digestive Health Institute physicians and surgeons treat each patients with esophageal disease on an individual basis. Esophageal diseases span a broad spectrum of benign and malignant conditions, and treatment options may vary depending on the type and severity of the condition.
Patients with complications associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Barrett’s esophagus, achalasia and other gastrointestinal motility disorders usually have an array of treatment options available, including medical, surgical and nonsurgical endoscopic options. The choice of which option is appropriate depends on a number of factors that may differ from patient to patient. The team at the Esophageal & Swallowing Center involves patients in the decision-making process to achieve the best possible outcomes after an extensive evaluation of their esophageal function with new technology.
Individualized Treatment Plans for Esophageal Cancer
We also use an individualized approach to guide the treatment plan for patients with esophageal cancer. A multidisciplinary team collaborates during tumor board meetings to offer the most current options for all types and stages of esophageal cancer. Our team includes specialists in:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgery
- Radiology
- Pathology
- Oncology
Early stage esophageal cancer may be treated with endoscopy alone, compared to more advanced stage esophageal cancer when a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy may be recommended. Our surgical oncologists are able to use a minimally invasive approach called esophagectomy in 75 percent of esophageal cancer surgeries with very good outcomes.