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 the South East of England treating the condition - Guildford has been chosen by the Cancer Action Team as the Regional Centre for Upper Gastro Intestinal Cancer Services for the Surrey West Sussex and Hampshire Cancer Network.

The cancer is diagnosed at endoscopy, by removal of a small piece of tissue. A CT scan is then taken to determine whether surgery is appropriate.

If the decision is made to operate, the patient is admitted to hospital shortly thereafter, and an operation performed 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.

If appropriate, the patient may be referred to an oncologist at the St Luke's Cancer Centre for chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Close follow-up with Professor Bailey continues after treatment.