English Writing Sample - Esophagectomy
Esophagectomy
Summary:
An esophagectomy, defined as the removal of the entire esophagus or a section of it, is a surgical procedure commonly used to treat esophageal cancer. The operation is also performed to treat health conditions such as achalasia and to repair damage in the esophagus. Currently, there are three techniques used for an esophagectomy; laparoscopy, open surgery, and en bloc. Out of all the types, laparoscopy is the least invasive, while en bloc esophagectomy is the most invasive. During the surgery, parts of the stomach are used to construct a new esophagus. While the new esophagus heals, you'll be fed via a feeding tube. Most people only have to stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 weeks and can return to their normal lives 1 to 2 months after the surgery.
The esophagus, which is responsible for transporting food into the stomach after it's swallowed, can be partially or entirely removed through a procedure called an esophagectomy. If the whole organ is removed, a new one is built with sections of the stomach and intestine.
An esophagectomy is most often performed to treat cancer in the esophagus. However, the surgery is also used to treat other health conditions such as achalasia and serious trauma.
Esophagectomy Types
There are three main types of esophagectomy:
Laparoscopy - In this type of surgery, a small device that holds a camera is used by the surgeon to view and perform the procedure through tiny incisions.
Open Surgery - There are two options with open surgery; trans-hiatal esophagectomy and trans-thoracic esophagectomy. A trans-hiatal esophagectomy requires one incision in the neck and another in the top portion of the abdomen. A trans-thoracic esophagectomy includes an incision in the chest and a cut in the upper abdomen.
En Bloc - This type of surgery is the most invasive of the three types; it involves an incision in the chest, neck, and abdomen so that the entire esophagus can be removed.
Depending on each case, part of the stomach and lymph nodes may be removed during the surgery. A feeding tube will also be placed in the small intestine to help with feeding during the recovery phase. On average, an esophagectomy takes anywhere from 3 to 6 hours.
Possible Health Risks
Like with all surgical procedures, there are also health risks associated with an esophagectomy. Some of these include;
Bad Reaction to Anesthesia or Drugs
Respiratory Problems
Excess Blood Loss
Blood Clot Formation
Infection
Accidental Trauma to Organs
Preparing for the Procedure
A physical exam along with some routine tests will be done by your doctor in order to determine your eligibility. Once the surgery is scheduled, it's important that let your doctor know about any drugs, prescription medication, or supplements that you are taking. Some substances such as alcohol, aspirin, and vitamin E can increase the amount of blood loss during the surgery.
Esophagectomy Recovery
Hospital stays for an esophagectomy vary from 1 to 2 weeks depending on the type of surgery you have. During this time, you'll be monitored closely for infection and blood clots, and fed through a feeding tube. Pain medication will also be provided in case of discomfort. Most people can return to their daily routine 4 to 6 weeks after the surgery.
For more on esophagectomy visit Bay Surgical Specialists at http://baysurgicalspecialists.com.