Do you need a referral for oesophagus removal surgery?

The referral is commonly made by a gastroenterologist, cancer specialist or another doctor involved in investigating the oesophagus. Surgery is considered only after the team reviews the diagnosis, scans, endoscopy findings, biopsy results and your ability to undergo a major operation.

An oesophagectomy removes part or most of the oesophagus and reconstructs the route for food, often using the stomach. The exact plan depends on the location of the disease, nearby anatomy and previous treatment. A multidisciplinary team may coordinate surgery with oncology, gastroenterology, radiology, pathology and dietetics.

Preoperative review may assess breathing, heart health, nutrition, mobility, swallowing and current medicines. The surgeon explains the proposed reconstruction, feeding support, hospital recovery and possible changes to eating after the procedure. Referral therefore begins evaluation rather than confirming that surgery will occur.

Bring endoscopy and pathology reports, scan information, clinic letters and a complete medicine list if available. Tell the team whether food sticks, swallowing is painful, liquids cause coughing, meals trigger regurgitation, or weight is falling without intention. Mention smoking, breathing conditions and previous chest or abdominal surgery.

Follow the team's guidance on nutrition and activity while assessment continues, and do not alter prescribed medicines without instructions. Ask the referral office whether tests or consultations must be completed before meeting the surgeon. The Oesophagus Removal Surgery page provides further procedure details.

Get urgent medical help if food is completely stuck, you cannot swallow liquids or saliva, you are choking, or breathing becomes difficult. Promptly contact the clinical team for repeated vomiting, signs of dehydration, new chest pain, vomiting blood or black stools. Do not wait for the planned surgical consultation when these problems occur.

Ask what portion of the oesophagus may be removed, how the digestive tract would be reconstructed, and whether treatment is expected before or after surgery. Discuss feeding support, pain relief, breathing exercises, activity, changes to meal size, pathology results and the symptoms that should trigger contact after discharge.