Duke Cancer Institute’s experienced surgeons offer surgery to remove part of the esophagus (esophagectomy), the most common treatment for esophageal cancer.

During an esophagectomy, a section of the esophagus is removed and the remaining portion is reconnected to the stomach. If needed, part of the intestine or a plastic tube may be used to connect the stomach to the esophagus. 

If the tumor is blocking food and liquids from passing through the esophagus, the surgeon may do dilatation or place a metal stent -- an expandable tube -- to help keep the esophagus open.

Experience Matters

The highly experienced thoracic surgeons at the Duke Cancer Institute perform more than 60 esophageal resections each year.

This is an important statistic given that outcomes from this procedure are directly associated with the experience of the surgeon and the medical center -- and that 20 such procedures a year is considered high volume.

Appointments

Learn how to make an appointment at the Duke Cancer Institute.