Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal Cancer Treatment in Pune
Welcome to Kaizen Gastro Care, your trusted destination for comprehensive and compassionate esophageal cancer treatment in Pune, Maharashtra. Kaizen Gastro Care is a leading gastroenterology clinic in Pune, Maharashtra, that offers comprehensive treatment for esophageal cancer. The clinic is led by Dr. Vikrant Kale and Dr. Samrat Jankar, who are professional and highly skilled gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons in Pune, Maharashtra. Our dedicated team of experts, cutting-edge technology, and patient-centric approach make us a leading choice for esophageal cancer treatment in Pune.
Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. It is a relatively rare cancer, but it can be very serious if it is not diagnosed and treated early. At Kaizen Gastro Care, our gastroenterologists understand that each patient is unique, and their treatment plan should reflect their individual needs. Our team of experienced oncologists, surgeons, and support staff work collaboratively to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific condition.
If you or a loved one is facing esophageal cancer, don’t hesitate to reach out to Kaizen Gastro Care, the best gastroenterology clinic in Pune, Maharashtra. We are here to provide you with the best possible care and support. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a healthier future.
What is esophageal cancer?
Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the esophagus, a long, muscular tube that runs from the throat to the stomach. The esophagus permits the movement of food and liquid from the throat to the stomach.
Esophageal cancer can occur anywhere along the esophagus, but it is most common in the lower third. It is the eighth most ordinary cancer in the world and the sixth leading cause of cancer death. There are two primary types of esophageal cancer:
- Squamous cell carcinoma: This type of cancer starts in the squamous cells that line the inside of the esophagus. Squamous cells are flat, thin cells that are found in numerous parts of the body, including the skin, mouth, and esophagus.
- Adenocarcinoma: This type of cancer forms in the glandular cells that line the inside of the esophagus. Glandular cells produce mucus and other substances that aid in moving food through the digestive system.
Esophageal cancer is not as common as other types of cancer, such as lung cancer and breast cancer, but it is a serious condition. It is more common in men than in women, and it is most common in individuals over the age of 55.
What causes esophageal cancer?
The exact cause of esophageal cancer is not known, but there are several risk factors for the disease. Risk factors for esophageal cancer include:
- Older age: Esophageal cancer occurs more often in people older than 60 years than in those aged 60 or younger.
- Male gender: Men are three times more likely to develop the disease than women.
- Ethnicity: Squamous cell esophageal cancer happens more often in African Americans and Asians. Adenocarcinoma happens more often in whites.
- Tobacco use: This includes smoking and using smokeless tobacco.
- Alcohol use: Chronic and/or heavy use of alcohol increases the risk of esophageal cancer.
- Barrett’s esophagus and chronic acid reflux: Barrett’s esophagus is a change in the cells at the lower end of the esophagus that occurs from chronic untreated acid reflux. Even without Barrett’s esophagus, people with long-term heartburn have a higher risk of esophageal cancer.
- Human papilloma virus (HPV): In areas of the world that have a high incidence of esophageal cancer (such as Asia and South Africa), infection with HPV carries an increased risk of developing esophageal squamous cell cancer. HPV is a common virus that can cause tissue changes in the vocal cords and mouth and on the hands, feet, and sex organs.
- Other disorders: Other conditions have been linked to esophageal cancer. These include achalasia, an uncommon disease that causes difficulty swallowing, and tylosis, a rare, inherited disorder in which excess skin grows on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.
- Occupational exposure to certain chemicals: People exposed to dry cleaning solvents over long periods of time are at higher risk for esophageal cancer.
- History of cancer: People who have had cancer of the neck or head have a greater risk for esophageal cancer.
What are the signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer?
The symptoms of esophageal cancer can vary depending on the stage of the disease and the location of the tumor. Common signs of esophageal cancer include:
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Pain when swallowing
- Unintentional weight loss
- Heartburn
- Hoarseness
- Regurgitation of food
- Regurgitation of food or liquid
If you or someone you know experiences persistent or worsening symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the prognosis for esophageal cancer.
Diagnosis of Esophageal Cancer At Kaizen Gastro Care:
Kaizen Gastro Care specialists will ask you about your medical history, including your current symptoms. After a physical examination, the doctor might order certain tests that can help in diagnosing and assessing esophageal cancer.
- Barium swallow uses a special series of X-rays to visualize the esophagus. The patient drinks a liquid containing barium, which makes the esophagus easier to see on the X-ray.
- Esophagoscopy is a procedure that allows the doctor to look at the inside of the esophagus using a thin, lighted tube called an endoscope. For the test, the endoscope is passed through the mouth and down the throat into the esophagus while you are asleep. Endoscopy can also be used to relieve the obstruction. The doctor can insert a balloon to dilate an obstructed esophagus. Looking at the esophagus and the upper part of the stomach is called an upper endoscopy.
- Biopsy: During the esophagoscopy, the doctor may remove a small piece of tissue to examine under a microscope to see if there are any cancer cells.
- Esophageal endoscopic ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of internal structures. In this procedure, the ultrasound is performed through the esophagoscope.
- Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans may be used to determine the size and location of the tumor and to see if it has spread to other parts of the body.
Esophageal Cancer Treatment At Kaizen Gastro Care:
At Kaizen Gastro Care, we believe in a patient-centered approach to esophageal cancer treatment, offering the latest advancements in medical science. Our treatments include:
- Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for early-stage esophageal cancer. The surgeon may remove a part of the esophagus, as well as nearby lymph nodes. Our experienced surgical team specializes in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted procedures, assuring quicker recovery times and less discomfort for our patients.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy operates high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be used before or after surgery, or on its own for patients who cannot have surgery. Our state-of-the-art radiation therapy methods precisely target cancer cells, increasing treatment effectiveness and lowering collateral damage to healthy tissue.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses medicines to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be used before or after surgery, or on its own for patients who cannot have surgery. We use personalized chemotherapy regimens that target cancer cells while minimizing side effects.
- Endoscopic submucosal dissection (EDS) or endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR): Endoscopic submucosal dissection (EDS) or endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) are procedures to treat early tumors that are small. The tumors may be removed endoscopically without having to remove the esophagus.
- Endoscopic laser therapy: Endoscopic laser therapy may be used to treat more advanced tumors that may cause a blockage in the esophagus. As part of palliative therapy, lasers can be used to cut a hole in the blockage to improve swallowing and allow the patient to eat.
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT): Photodynamic therapy uses a light-sensitive drug and a laser to kill cancer cells. Photodynamic therapy can be used to treat early-stage cancer or to ease signs caused by advanced cancer.
- Immunotherapy: Kaizen Gastro Care offers immunotherapy options that harness your body’s immune system to fight esophageal cancer. Immunotherapy helps the body’s own immune system fight cancer cells.
What are the risk factors for esophageal cancer?
The following are some of the risk factors for esophageal cancer:
- Smoking: Smoking damages the cells in the esophagus and can lead to cancer.
- Heavy alcohol use: Heavy alcohol use can irritate the esophagus and cause it more likely to develop cancer.
- Achalasia: Achalasia is a condition in which the muscles at the bottom of the esophagus do not work properly, making it difficult for food to pass into the stomach. Achalasia is also a precancerous condition.
- Obesity: Obese individuals are at a higher risk of developing esophageal cancer.
- Age: Esophageal cancer is more typical in older adults.
- Sex: Esophageal cancer is more ordinary in men than in women.
- Diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables and high in processed meats may improve the risk of esophageal cancer.
It is crucial to note that having one or more risk factors does not mean that you will develop esophageal cancer. However, it is important to be aware of your risk factors and to talk to your doctor about ways to decrease your risk.
What are the complications of esophageal cancer?
The complications of esophageal cancer can vary depending on the stage of the cancer, the type of cancer, and the patient’s overall health. Some common complications of esophageal cancer include:
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Pain in the chest, back, or throat
- Bleeding in the esophagus.
- Weight loss
- Fistula
- Metastasis
- Obstruction
- Stricture Formation
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
How can I prevent esophageal cancer?
Here are some tips to reduce your risk of esophageal cancer:
- Quit smoking.
- Limit your alcohol intake.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables.
- Get regular checkups and screenings, especially if you have any of the risk factors listed above.
- Get vaccinated against HPV
- Treat GERD
- Manage achalasia
- Stay Hydrated
Why Choose Kaizen Gastro Care for Esophageal Cancer Treatment:
- Experienced Team: Our team of experts has comprehensive experience in treating esophageal cancer, assuring that you receive the best care possible.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: We have modern, well-equipped facilities that meet the most elevated standards of medical care.
- Personalized Care: We tailor treatment plans to your individual needs, assuring you receive the most effective and appropriate care.
- Supportive Environment: Kaizen Gastro Care is committed to providing a caring and supportive environment for our patients and their families.
- Compassionate Care: We understand the emotional toll cancer can take on patients and their families. Our compassionate approach assures you feel sustained throughout your journey.
- Convenient Location: Kaizen Gastro Care Clinic is located at the Pune and PCMC Prime location i.e. Wakad Area. This is the central location of Pune city. The patient can easily come with all public transport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's):
Kaizen Gastro Care in Pune is renowned for its expertise in esophageal cancer treatment. Our multidisciplinary team and state-of-the-art facilities make us a top choice for patients seeking the best care.
Esophageal cancer can be cured without surgery in the early stages, but the chances are low. Other treatments include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and endoscopic therapy.
Chemo can cure early-stage esophageal cancer, but it is less useful in later stages. In progressive stages, chemo is used to shrink the tumor and ease symptoms.
Request a Call Back:
If you or a loved one is facing esophageal cancer, Kaizen Gastro Care is here to provide you with the highest quality of care and support. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our team of experts and take the first step toward a brighter, healthier future. For more information about our comprehensive treatment options, or to request an appointment with the best gastro care clinic in Pune. Call us on 9763635252 or Book an online Appointment.
Esophageal cancer is a challenging diagnosis, but with the right team by your side, you can face it with confidence. Kaizen Gastro Care is here to guide you through your journey to recovery.