Palliation for carcinoma of the esophagus

Radiology. 1976 Dec;121(3 Pt. 1):717-20. doi: 10.1148/121.3.717.

Abstract

From 1950 to 1973, 169 patients received irradiation for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. The average survival time was 10 months, with 7% of the patients living 2 years or more. The median survival time was 7 months; palliation averaged 6 months. Most completing therapy (89%) achieved some palliation: 66% had significant relief of dysphagia for 2 months or longer. The anatomical location of the malignant obstruction did not influence therapeutic response; there was similar response in cases of upper, middle, and lower esophageal lesions. Thirty patients with progressive obstruction underwent endoesophageal intubation with Celestin tube placement; this procedure provided symptomatic relief with minimal morbidity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / mortality
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / radiotherapy
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / surgery
  • Esophageal Neoplasms / mortality
  • Esophageal Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Esophageal Neoplasms / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Palliative Care*
  • Prognosis
  • Time Factors