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Esophageal cancer occurs anywhere along the esophagus (the long and hollow tube that runs from the throat to the stomach). Surgery for esophageal cancer is often used to try to remove cancer and some of the normal tissue that surrounds it for some earlier stage cancers. In some cases, the surgery may be combined with other types of treatment, such as radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy.
Esophageal cancer surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The surgery is done using the standard open technique in which your surgeon makes one large incision in the chest or abdomen, or minimally invasive where your surgeon makes several small incisions. During the surgery, your surgeon will try to remove the tumor and some healthy tissue that surrounds it or removes some or most of the esophagus (esophagectomy). In some cases, a small upper portion of your stomach is removed as well (esophagogastrectomy).
You will be staying 7 to 10 days in the hospital following the surgery, but plan to stay in Taiwan for 10 to 14 more days after you are discharged from the hospital. During your stay in the country, you will be under a close monitor of your surgeon. Stitches are usually removed within 14 days.
Esophageal cancer surgery is not a simple procedure, therefore, it may require long recovery time. You should not do any strenuous activity (including intense exercise and heavy lifting) for about 8 weeks after the surgery and you will need tube feeding (enteral nutrition) for 4 to 6 weeks to ensure adequate nutrition. Talk to your doctor about your recovery timeline, including when you can return to work and resume your daily activities.
Since your stomach size is likely reduced after the surgery, you need to adjust your diet and eat more frequently in smaller quantities. Your doctor may recommend follow-up care to prevent complications, including lung therapy, nutritional assessments, pain management, and psychosocial care. You also need to attend regular follow-up checkups to make sure the tumor has not returned and there are no new tumor growths.
Surgery for esophageal cancer is known to be highly successful. Patients who undergo surgery are more likely to survive long term than those who did not. However, like all serious operations, esophageal cancer surgery has some side effects and risks, including lung complications, voice changes, infection, bleeding, cough, leakage from the surgical connection of the stomach and the esophagus, acid or bile reflux, dysphagia, and reaction to anesthesia.
In some cases, your doctor may recommend chemotherapy (to kill cancer cells using drugs) or radiation therapy (to kill cancer cells using high-powered X-ray beams) along with or instead of surgery. Make sure to discuss with your doctor, the best option for you as well as the risk and benefit of each procedure.
Esophageal cancer causes symptoms such as dysphagia, unintentional weight loss, chest pain, heartburn, coughing, and hoarseness. It may interfere with your ability to perform your daily activities and it can lead to dangerous complications. After the surgery, some of your symptoms should be relieved and your quality of life will be improved significantly.
Whilst the information presented here has been accurately sourced and verified by a medical professional for its accuracy, it is still advised to consult with your doctor before pursuing a medical treatment at one of the listed medical providers
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Whilst still a part of the Republic of China, the small island of Taiwan maintains a wealth of ancient Chinese culture and traditions mixed with modern-day Western inspirations. With its food-loving locals and award-winning whiskeys, Taiwan is a land of surprises. With 14 JCI accredited facilities in Taiwan, Taipei, the capital, is home to most, many of which are part of the University Hospitals and offer a range of specialist tertiary care. The country welcomes an ever-increasing number of medical tourists each year, many of which travel for Esophageal Cancer Surgery procedures. Medical Tourists mostly travel from the mainland or from within the region.
Taiwan is one of the most densely populated countries in the world with 23.5 million inhabitants. The country has amazed tourists with its dynamic cities, vibrant culture, interesting history, and incredible natural scenery.
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport is the main airport in the country, located about 40km west of Taipei in the Dayuan District, Taoyuan. It is the hub for 6 airlines including two of Taiwan’s major airlines, China Airlines, and EVA Air. It has international connections with almost every country in the world. The airport serves major airlines as well as budget airlines such as Air Asia, Eastar Jet, Air Busan, and Tiger air Taiwan. There are other airports that serve international and domestic flights such as Taichung Airport, Tainan Airport, Siaogang Airport, and Taipei Songshan Airport.
Tourists arriving at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport have a variety of transport options such as buses, taxis, car rentals, and Taoyuan Airport MRT. Buses are the cheapest option to get to the city center. Tourists who head towards the Taipei 101 area should take Bus no. 1960, while bus no. 1819 and 1961 will take tourists near Taipei Main Train Station.
Taxis are available in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2’ arrivals lobby. The fare is based on a meter and will usually cost around 1,200 TWD (40.50 USD). A journey to the city center takes about 50 minutes and taxis operate for 24 hours.
Taoyuan Airport MRT is the fastest way to reach Taipei’s city center. It will take tourists to Taipei Main Station in 35 minutes and costs 160 TWD (5.40 USD). The MRT operates from 6.05 am to 11.35 pm.
Tourists can travel around Taiwan by normal train (TRA). It is an affordable option; a train ride from Taipei to Kaohsiung costs around 845 TWD. Tourists who need a quicker travel time can opt for Taiwan High-Speed Train (HSR). The train travels from Taipei to Kaohsiung in just 90 minutes.
The cheapest way to travel around Taiwan is by bus. Buses are readily available and will reach small villages and mountain resorts. The country provides Taiwan Tourist Shuttle bus system that offers 42 routes to more than 100 tourist destinations.
Taxis and MRT is the best way to travel around big cities. In Kaohsiung, getting around in a bicycle is the best way to explore as it is one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in Taiwan.
Citizens of 65 countries do not require a visa to visit Taiwan and can stay for up to 90 days. Nationals of Turkey can obtain a visa on arrival valid for 30 days. It is best to check to the nearest embassy or consulate for visa requirements. Since January 2016, Taiwan offers an eVisa program for 18 countries including Saudi Arabia, Peru, Oman, and United Arab Emirates.