Oesophageal Cancer
Oesophageal Cancer is an uncommon cancer in Australia. It is most often associated with long-term reflux and Barrett’s Oesophagus.
It is more common in heavy drinkers and heavy smokers, but it is known that after cessation the risk begins to fall.
Symptoms of oesophageal cancer are typically related to difficulty swallowing, initially with solid food and eventually with fluids as well. Difficulty swallowing may also be related to a number of other conditions, however it is a ‘red flag symptom’ and if experiencing this we encourage you to see your doctor for urgent review.
After a diagnosis of oesophageal cancer is made, a number of further tests will be performed to help determine the stage of cancer, and the best treatment for an individual patient. These tests may include some or all of:
Laparoscopy (keyhole surgery) to look inside the abdomen and test for microscopic spread of disease in the lining of the abdomen
Repeat gastroscopy for further biopsy
CT scan of the chest, abdomen and pelvis
PET scan of the whole body to assess disease burden
Treatment may include chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery. Treatment will be tailored to each individual patient after discussing their case with a variety of relevant cancer specialists- this is often done at our weekly Multidisciplinary Team Meeting.
Oesophagectomy involves removal of the cancer-affected oesophagus and then reconstructing the oesophagus. This is usually by dragging the stomach up to the remaining oesophagus through a combination of surgery via the abdomen and the chest. It is a very large undertaking and Dr Gillespie will have a very detailed discussion with you about the procedure, the risks involved and life after surgery. Due to this, we encourage you to bring a loved one or support person to your consultation.
Treatment,
tailored to you
Gallbladder surgery
Removal of the gallbladder- otherwise known as cholecystectomy- is almost always done via a laparoscopic, or keyhole, approach. This is usually performed electively either as day surgery or with a one-night stay in hospital.
Dr Gillespie specialises in the following procedures
Abdominal Wall Hernia Repair
There are many different types of abdominal wall hernia- but this can include umbilical (naval) and incisional hernias.
They are always repaired under a general anaesthetic.
Gastrectomy
A gastrectomy is performed for the surgical management of gastric (stomach) cancer. It involves the removal of the tumour with the stomach itself ensuring that the entire cancer is removed, along with removal of the lymph nodes that would typically be the first place that cancer would spread.
Fundoplication (Anti Reflux Surgery)
A fundoplication is a surgical procedure performed for people with proven gastro-oesophageal reflux that cannot be managed with medication alone. It is also performed as part of a hiatus hernia repair. It is usually performed laparoscopically.
Hiatus Hernia Repair
Most hiatus hernia surgery is performed laparoscopically (keyhole surgery) and involves returning the stomach to the abdominal cavity and then repairing the hernia itself.
Inguinal (groin) hernia repair
This is generally done via a laparoscopic (keyhole) approach under a general anaesthetic. There may be some circumstances where an open approach is preferable and Dr Gillespie will discuss the details specific to you when consenting for surgery.
Endoscopy (Gastroscopy/Colonoscopy)
Endoscopy is performed under either a sedation or general anaesthetic. It is a day procedure that occurs in hospital.
Oesophagectomy
An oesophagectomy is performed to remove a tumour of the oesophagus or the junction between the oesophagus and stomach, along with the lymph nodes to which this cancer tends to spread first.
Weight Loss Surgery
First of all, congratulations on making the first step towards a real lifestyle change. We know that most people will have already explored many options before enquiring about weight loss surgery.
Often, people are sick of the cycle of weight loss followed by weight regain. And many people will find that after working hard to lose weight, they can even put more back on. This process can be so disheartening. While weight loss surgery is by no means an "easy" way out, it can help break this cycle and empower you with the tools to have long lasting weight loss.
But more important than the number on the scales, bariatric surgery can help with obesity related complications and allow you to live a life without compromise.
