A 41-year-old member asked:
When choosing a surgeon to perform my esophagectomy for cancer, what should i consider?
2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. David Cookeanswered
Thoracic Surgery 24 years experience
Expertise: Esophagectomy or removal of the esophagus for cancer is a difficult operation. However, the surgeons who have good outcomes are the ones who expertise with the procedure. Things to look out for: do they do more than 12-15 esophagectomies per year? To they have a post-op care pathway? Are their nurses skilled in the care of the esophagectomy patient? Do they have a plan for when you go home? And do they explain things to you and your family clearly?
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Craig Carteranswered
Thoracic Surgery 42 years experience
Experience: The surgeon doing an occasional esophagectomy may be good, but it is unlikely they will be as up to date in the newer details of surgery, and more importantly, post- operative care. This is an example of where experience really does matter.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.6k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Aug 12, 2015
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