Hello to all!
We had the esophageal scope on Monday and got to see the surgeon today. The surgeon Dr. Brown was very nice and thorough with his assessment of Brian's current tests in comparison to tests prior to treatment.
The good news is that the tumor and affected lymph node on the hepatic ligament is gone. He continues to have Barrett's esophagus but otherwise his esophagus and stomach junction looks normal.
The surgeon stated that surgery would only prevent cancer from coming back in esophagus and since it was also found in the hepatic lymph node chances are favorable for it to spread to the liver. The doctor stated an esophagectomy is a very life changing surgery that would change Brian's life forever. He stated if the cancer was only located in the esophagus it would be a cure and the recommended form of treatment. Since it was already noted in node outside it wouldn't be considered a cure. The cancer could show up in liver or lung.
On the CT scan a small nodule was seen in the right lower lung. The PET scan didn't indicate any increase of metabolic activity in the chest, lungs, liver, or pelvis. Doctor didn't know what the nodule was because it was new, he thought it could be scar tissue.
The doctor stated he used to be aggressive with surgery but over time has determined to be more selective related to effects of surgery and recurrence of cancer showing up in the liver. The bottom line is he didn't recommend surgery for Brian, but recommended going to oncologist and receiving more chemo to try and prevent cancer from returning in esophagus and spreading to liver. Then having frequent scopes and scans to monitor for recurrence of cancer. So tomorrow we have an appointment with a Dr. Neelam an oncologist to see what and how long chemotherapy will be.
Both Brian and I had a wonderful massage today! He got his free and mine was only $20.00.
They have all sorts of activities here for patients and caregivers, not to mention the food is good.
L. Mary
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