The Duke Esophageal Cancer Clinic is among the few medical institutions offering coordinated, multidisciplinary care for patients battling esophageal cancer.

With one appointment, at one site, patients can see experienced cancer specialists from the full range of disciplines needed to provide expert diagnosis and treatment.

On a first visit to the clinic, most patients will see a thoracic surgeon, medical oncologist, and radiation oncologist in back-to-back appointments.

For the convenience of our patients, many of whom travel to Duke from around the Southeast, most diagnostic tests will also be scheduled with a gastroenterologist for the same day.

Our medical experts will then meet to determine the best course of treatment given each patient’s individual circumstances, and will discuss the options with the patient and his or her family to decide how to proceed.

Experienced Care, Positive Outcomes

Because esophageal cancer affects a relatively small, albeit rapidly growing, population, most hospitals have experience treating only a small number of patients with this disease.

At Duke, our specialists see up to 200 patients with cancer of the esophagus each year -- 10 to 20 times the number as are seen at most other hospitals.

In a field where experience and patient volume is directly correlated with positive patient outcomes, the Duke Esophageal Cancer Program offers a distinct advantage to our patients.