Conditions
Oesophageal Tumours
Tumours (abnormal growths) of the oesophagus (gullet or food-pipe) are either malignant (cancerous), or benign. For reasons that remain unclear, the current incidence of oesophageal cancer in Australia is growing faster than any other solid cancer. Only a small percentage of these tumours are benign (not cancerous).
Accompanying symptoms
The most common initial symptom of oesophageal tumours is difficulty swallowing (usually a sensation of food sticking behind the breast bone) or chest pain.
Difficulty Swallowing
Chest Pain
New Onset Heartburn/Reflux
Weight Loss
Loss of Appetite
Diagnosing Stomach Cancers:
Assessment for a potential gastric tumour typically requires a:
〇 Upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy (Gastroscopy)
〇 Tissue biopsy (usually taken during the Gastroscopy)
Our team at Melbourne Gastro Oesophageal Surgery can perform these tests with a valid referral. Please click on the relevant test for more information.
Treatment Options:
〇 Removal via gastroscopy
〇 Removal via surgery (total or partial gastrectmomy)
〇 Chemotherapy and radiotherapy
〇 Combination of both removal and chemotherapy/radiotherapy
Oesophageal cancers should be treated promptly. Many of these tumours are best treated with various combinations of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery. Please call (03) 9416 4418. Surgical consultations will require a valid referral to our surgeons.