Palliation of Malignant Dysphagia: Dilation, Stents, Cryoablation or Photodynamic Therapy—A Surgical Perspective

Abstract

Esophageal cancer remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with a low survival rate. Patients with advanced disease most commonly present with dysphagia and weight loss. Treatment is geared toward palliation of symptoms and improved quality of life in these patients. Various treatment modalities are available for these patients, although there is no data demonstrating the superiority of any particular technique. The aim of this chapter is to review these palliative interventions while focusing on endoscopic dilation, stents, cryoablation, and photodynamic therapy.