Esophagogastrectomy for carcinoma: technical considerations based on anatomic location of lesion.

Therapy for carcinoma of the esophagus and cardia is primarily palliative, since cures are uncommon. Palliation is best achieved by an aggressive surgical approach using esophagogastrectomy and esophagogastrostomy whenever possible. The surgical technique for these procedures is described in detail. Permanent relief from dysphagia is achieved in almost 90 per cent of patients who undergo operation.