Oesophageal and Stomach Cancer

Oesophageal and Stomach Cancer can be treated successfully, particularly if diagnosed at an early stage. Professor Bailey is one of the most experienced surgeons in England treating the condition. His cancer Unit has a catchment area of over one million people.

The cancer is diagnosed at endoscopy, by removal of a small piece of tissue. A CT scan is performed in all patients as part of the investigation.

For patients undergoing surgery, admission to hospital is shortly thereafter, to remove the cancer and its surrounding tissue. This may involve an operation on the abdomen and the chest. Professor Bailey often performs the abdominal part of the operation by laparoscopic surgery, and has been using this modern approach for over 10 years. Following surgery for oesophageal or stomach cancer, it is usual for the patient to be nursed in Intensive Care or the High Dependency Unit for a few days before moving to the main ward, with discharge home approximately two weeks later.

Patients who may require additional treatment such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy would also be seen by a medical oncologist.