Outpatient management of esophageal cancer with endoscopic Nd:YAG laser Journal Article


Authors: Lightdale, C. J.; Zimbalist, E.; Winawer, S. J.
Article Title: Outpatient management of esophageal cancer with endoscopic Nd:YAG laser
Abstract: In 50 inoperable patients with advanced malignant obstruction of the esophagus, endoscopic Nd:YAG laser treatment was used for palliation of dysphagia. In 30 of these patients, treatment was carried out entirely in an outpatient setting, providing more time at home and saving costs of hospitalization. Most patients had received prior radiation and chemotherapy. All were unable to swallow solid food; 16 bad difficulty with liquids. Palliation was achieved in 69% allowing patients to eat a nearly normal diet. Therapy was least successful in cancers involving the cervical esophagus, in cancers more than 8 cm in length, and in cancers that were primarily inflltrating or extraluminal. Epidermoid carcinomas and adenocarcinomas were effectively treated, except for adenocarcinomas of the gastric cardia, which tended to be infiltrating. There were two serious but nonfatal complications, one perforation and one episode of bleeding, directly attributable to Nd:YAG laser therapy. An esophageal dilation prior to endoscopic Nd:YAG laser treatment facilitated outpatient management. Copyright © 1987, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved
Keywords: adult; clinical article; aged; carcinoma, squamous cell; palliative care; laser surgery; esophagus cancer; esophagus stricture; esophagus; deglutition disorders; therapy; esophageal neoplasms; laser coagulation; middle age; ambulatory surgical procedures; esophagoscopy; esophageal stenosis; esophagus dilatation; human; male; female; priority journal; support, non-u.s. gov't
Journal Title: American Journal of Gastroenterology
Volume: 82
Issue: 1
ISSN: 0002-9270
Publisher: Wolters Kluwer Health  
Date Published: 1987-01-01
Start Page: 46
End Page: 50
Language: English
PUBMED: 2432776
PROVIDER: scopus
DOI/URL:
Notes: Article -- Export Date: 5 February 2021 -- Source: Scopus
Citation Impact
MSK Authors
  1. Sidney J Winawer
    274 Winawer