The liver is one of the body’s biggest and most crucial organs. It is essential for digestion, metabolism, and detoxification. Unfortunately, the liver can be affected by several illnesses, including liver tumors, just like any other organ. Many people find liver tumors a scary reality filled with dread, anxiety, and confusion.

“The liver is a crucial organ for maintaining the health of our body, so if anything goes wrong, it can be devastating,” says Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a renowned Surgical Oncologist in India.

Having queries and worries about a vital organ like the liver is normal. So read on if you have a liver tumor, know someone who does, or want to learn more. This blog will explore the various types of liver tumors, their signs and symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

A liver tumor, also called a hepatic tumor, is an abnormal growth or aggregation of cells in the liver. It could originate from the liver cells or tissues and be benign or malignant. Liver tumors can develop for a number of reasons, such as infection, chronic liver disease, and toxin exposure.

While some liver tumors may not show symptoms, others might be painful or uncomfortable. The tumor’s size and location may affect liver function and general health. Monitoring liver health through regular checkups and keeping a healthy lifestyle is crucial to lowering the risk of developing liver tumors.

“Regular visits to a medical professional can help detect the onset of a liver condition and treat it before it progresses into a full-fledged liver cancer,” advises laparoscopic surgeon Dr. Sandeep Nayak.

A liver tumor is any abnormal growth or cell mass that forms in the liver. It can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign tumors are typically not life-threatening and can be removed surgically. Malignant tumors can spread to other body regions and need immediate treatment.

Hepatic cancer, another name for liver cancer tumor, refers specifically to a malignant tumor that develops in the liver. The cancerous condition begins in the liver’s cells and can potentially spread to other organs. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most prevalent type of liver cancer out of several others.

“A liver tumor is a general term that refers to any abnormal growth in the liver,” explains robotic cancer surgeon Dr. Sandeep Nayak, “while liver cancer specifically refers to a malignant tumor that originates in the liver.”

Let us take a look at the common types of liver tumors.

Hemangioma:

The most common benign liver tumor, it is made of blood vessels and is usually tiny and symptomless.

Hepatocellular adenoma:

A benign liver tumor more frequently found in women can become huge and cause pain or other symptoms. It is commonly linked to the use of oral contraceptives.

Focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH):

Usually a tiny and asymptomatic non cancerous liver tumor, it comprises healthy liver cells organized abnormally.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC):

The most common malignant tumor of liver, which starts in liver cells and can spread to other body organs.

Cholangiocarcinoma:

Less frequent than HCC, cholangiocarcinoma is a form of liver cancer that develops in the cells lining the bile ducts. It can be aggressive and challenging to cure.

Angiosarcoma: 

An uncommon type of liver cancer arising in the cells lining the blood vessels in the liver, often due to exposure to certain chemicals or radiation.

Metastatic liver cancer:

The most prevalent type of liver cancer in adults, it is cancer that has progressed from another organ, such as the colon, breast, or lung, to the liver.

While the root cause of each type of liver tumor can differ, a number of common factors can raise the chance of developing liver tumors.

Listed below are some common causes and risk factors for liver tumors:

Chronic liver disease: 

Liver tumors can be more likely to form in people with chronic liver disease, such as cirrhosis, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), or hepatitis B or C.

Environmental factors: 

Exposure to chemicals or poisons can raise the risk of developing liver tumors. Examples of such chemicals include vinyl chloride, arsenic, and aflatoxins, produced by a particular form of mold.

Lifestyle factors: 

Heavy drinking, smoking, and obesity increase the chance of developing liver tumors.

Family history: 

Liver tumours are more likely to occur in those with a family history of them or with certain genetic disorders such as hereditary hemochromatosis.

Age and gender: 

Older persons and men are more likely to develop liver tumours.

Diabetes: 

Liver tumours are more likely to form in people with diabetes.

Metabolic disorders: 

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency and Wilson’s disease are two examples of metabolic abnormalities that can raise the chance of developing liver tumors.

“Having one or more of these risk factors does not guarantee a person will develop a liver tumor,” says oncological surgeon Dr. Sandeep Nayak. “Liver tumors can also occur in persons who do not have any known risk factors.”

Let us look at the symptoms and diagnostic tests to detect liver tumors.

A liver tumor may cause the following symptoms:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Swelling or enlargement of the abdomen
• Loss of appetite or weight loss
• Nausea or vomiting
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Fatigue or weakness
• Pale or clay-colored stools
• Dark urine

If you experience any of the above symptoms, please consult Dr. Sandeep Nayak to assess your condition and run some essential diagnostic tests.

Blood tests: 

Blood tests may be done to check liver function, including liver enzyme levels and tumor markers.

Imaging tests:

Imaging tests such as liver tumor ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, or PET scan can detect liver tumors and determine their size, location, and spread.

Biopsy: 

A small sample of liver tissue may be examined under a microscope to determine if it is cancerous or benign.

Angiography:

A dye is injected into an artery in the liver to help visualize blood vessels and detect abnormalities.

Laparoscopy: 

A tiny camera is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen to allow the doctor to see the liver and any tumors up close.

Endoscopy: 

A thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end is passed down the throat and into the stomach to examine the liver and bile ducts.

Not all liver tumors cause symptoms; some may be detected incidentally during routine medical tests or exams.

“You must not ignore any discomfort or abnormalities in your body or sensations,” cautions cancer specialist Dr. Sandeep Nayak. “Early detection makes it possible to look at the best possible liver tumor treatment options for optimum results.”

Oncological surgeon Dr. Sandeep Nayak performs the following procedures frequently for liver Cancer Treatment in Bangalore.

The treatment choices for liver tumors depend on the size and location, the stage of the malignancy, and the patient’s overall health. 

• Surgery: 

Liver tumor surgery is frequently used if the tumor is confined and can be removed safely without harming healthy liver tissue. The most common liver surgery to remove tumor is hepatectomy, which involves removing a part of the liver.

• Liver transplant: 

On occasion, a liver transplant may be necessary if the tumor is too large or located in a location that cannot be removed surgically. Only patients who meet specific criteria and can access a suitable donor liver are eligible to employ this approach.

• Radiation: 

High-energy radiation is used to eliminate cancer cells. The delivery is possible internally directly to the liver (brachytherapy) or externally (external beam radiation).

• Chemotherapy: 

Chemotherapy uses drugs, administered orally or intravenously, to eradicate cancer cells from the liver and other body parts. 

• Targeted therapy: 

Drugs used in targeted therapy directly target cancer cells and stop their division and growth. They may be utilized separately or in conjunction with other treatments.

• Ablation therapy: 

This technique applies heat or cold to kill liver tumors. The medical professional can administer this through a tiny skin incision or a needle into the liver.

• Embolization: 

In embolization, the tumor’s blood supply is cut off, resulting in tumor death or shrinkage. Numerous methods can achieve this, such as obstructing blood vessels with microspheres (tiny beads or coils).

If you or a loved one has a liver condition, please visit cancer specialist Dr. Sandeep Nayak. Dr. Nayak frequently collaborates with his team of experienced oncologists to diagnose the condition’s specifics and determine the best course of treatment.

A liver tumor diagnosis can be emotionally difficult for patients and their loved ones. However, the outcomes for individuals who receive therapy have significantly improved due to developments in medical science and technology.

Patients can conquer this challenge and emerge even stronger with the assistance of knowledgeable healthcare experts and a helpful network of family and friends. We can continue to be optimistic about managing liver tumors as medical professionals work to discover new therapies and cures for benign and malignant liver tumors.

If you seek a reliable treatment for your liver condition, please get in touch with Dr. Sandeep Nayak, often deemed the best oncologist in India. 

Together, we can fight against this ailment and improve life for those impacted.

Decades ago, open surgery was the standard of care, when a surgeon made an incision in the body of the patient and then performed a series of procedures to remove benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) tumors. The process took too long and usually resulted in a high frequency of complications. However, minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopic and robotic surgery can now be used to conduct cancer surgery.

Minimally invasive surgery has become increasingly popular in the last two decades. These approaches involve introducing a camera through a keyhole (tiny) incision in order to reach any significant target organ or the cancer site.

These procedures are less uncomfortable and less likely to result in problems. 

The benefits are enormous when the incisions are small, explains Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a well-known surgical oncologist in India. 

In this article, we shall learn the similarities and differences between these two surgical methods.

There are several similarities between robotic surgery and laparoscopic surgery. The most significant similarities include the following:

• Both techniques use smaller incisions than a traditional open surgery
• Both procedures involve the use of tiny cameras to get a better view of the surgical area
• The surgical instruments used in both these procedures are much smaller

However, robotic surgery has made technological strides that make these operations simpler for doctors to carry out and for the patients to recuperate from.

The two methods of surgery differ significantly from one another. The key areas of distinction are the instruments used and how they operate.

Laparoscopic Surgery 

Laparoscopic surgery involves performing surgery by making keyhole, minimally invasive incisions in the abdominal (tummy) wall. The procedure is carried out using a laparoscope, a hand-held tool that aids the laparoscopic surgeon in navigating the body.

The camera used in Laparoscopic surgery is 2-dimensional.

It is employed to treat a number of ailments, including but not restricted to ovarian cysts, hernias, and numerous cancers.

Laparoscopic Surgery – Advantages

• lowers the potential for injury while performing the surgery
• the pain and discomfort during the healing period are less
• requires a shorter stay in the hospital
• the need for anesthetic drugs is reduced
• the risk of wound complications and infections is reduced
• blood loss is less, and recovery is quicker
• minimal discomfort and pain
• enables patients to resume routine activities soon
• the cosmetic results are better

Please get in touch with Dr. Sandeep Nayak if you want more information about Laparoscopic cancer surgery in India.

Robotic Surgery

Robotic surgery, also referred to as robot-assisted surgery, allows medical professionals to perform a multitude of intricate and challenging treatments with greater precision, flexibility, and command than is feasible with traditional methods.

This technique allows the surgeon to operate the surgical instruments from outside the body of the patient with the help of a console and a 3-dimensional camera. It enables surgeons to see clearly within the body, allowing them to do surgery without endangering a patient’s vital health tissues or organs. 

Robotic surgery is an option for many challenging surgical operations, including prostate cancer surgery, liver transplantation, and heart bypass surgery. Robotic surgery helps with efficiency, precision, and command throughout a procedure. For patients, robotic surgery offers some benefits similar to those of laparoscopic surgery.

However, there are some clear advantages that you should take into account while selecting your course of treatment.

Robotic Surgery – Advantages

• provides a greater range of motion
• the 3-dimensional camera allows a better view of the operation site
• causes minimal blood loss, and recovery is quicker
• there is precision in the movements as surgeon tremor is eliminated
• the instruments are intricate and can access areas that a surgeon’s hand cannot reach in traditional or laparoscopic surgery
• reduced need for anesthetics during and after surgery

Dr. Sandeep Nayak adds that Robotic surgery typically results in less discomfort, reduced complications, and a speedier recovery period for the patient since it allows the surgeon a precise and clear perspective of the surgery site and improved dexterity.

With over 23 years of overall experience, Dr. Sandeep Nayak is among the preferred cancer specialists for people seeking Robotic Cancer Surgery in Bangalore, India.

Which cancer surgery is best depends on several variables, including the health status of the patient, the surgeon’s preferences and surgical experience, the kind of cancer that needs treatment, time restraints, and available amenities and technology.

Laparoscopic surgery appeals to patients because it requires fewer incisions and causes less discomfort. On the other hand, robotic surgery additionally offers improved visualization and precision in the operating room with fewer difficulties.

Cancer specialist Dr. Sandeep Nayak adds that Robotic surgery is typically preferred when a surgeon must operate in a challenging, constrained area of the body. 

Furthermore, robotic surgery has a quicker recovery period and is a less invasive choice for patients who are uncomfortable with the thought of surgery. Although less invasive, laparoscopic surgery takes longer to complete.

If you are considering getting cancer treatment in Bangalore, please consult Dr. Sandeep Nayak to understand which treatment option is the most suitable for you.

Cancer is a disease that can be agonizing and traumatic for the patient and their loved ones. It can be physically and emotionally draining. The treatment techniques can also cause a lot of discomfort and uncertainty.

However, with progress in medical science, treatment options are becoming more advanced with minimal side effects or discomfort. Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgery are both minimally invasive techniques that enable precise surgeries with the quickest recovery time, but there are a few significant variations between them.

It is significant to highlight that both of these procedures are generally very successful. So, do not be concerned about the surgical choice you or your doctors decide on.

Please do not delay the process if you or a loved one requires cancer treatment; start your treatment with the accomplished surgical oncologist Dr. Sandeep Nayak. He is a pioneer in the field of minimally invasive surgeries and has saved the lives of countless people with his surgical expertise.

Q. Is robotic surgery the same as laparoscopic?

A. A two-dimensional camera is used to aid with manual laparoscopic surgery. Meanwhile, in robotic surgery, the surgeon must use a console and a three-dimensional camera to manipulate equipment from outside the patient’s body.

Q. what are the advantages of robotic surgery?

A. The ability to perform surgery through tiny incisions is one of its key benefits. Among the additional benefits of robotic surgery are: Greater accuracy: Compared to a human hand, the robotic arm’s actions are more precise. They also have a wider range of motion.

Being diagnosed with cancer really hits one hard. To fully grasp the situation is challenging for the patient and their family.

In such a situation, it becomes necessary to understand the severity of the condition and the best treatment options available before making a decision.

Surgery is an integral part of cancer treatment, which is constantly evolving, and the latest surgical approach that has revolutionized cancer treatment is robotic surgery. Robotic surgery aids surgeons in carrying out complex surgical procedures with unrivalled precision, increased flexibility, and better control than conventional surgery.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, an acclaimed surgical oncologist in India, is a pioneer in laparoscopic and robotic surgery in the country. He has successfully treated thousands of patients with robotic cancer surgery in Bangalore, India.

He has been at the forefront of providing exceptional treatment options to his patients by researching and adopting the latest medical techniques and technology.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak is the Founder of MACS Clinic, an exclusive centre for minimally invasive cancer surgery, and Director and HOD of Minimal Access Surgical Oncology at Fortis Cancer Institute, Bangalore.

Read on to learn about robotic surgery, its benefits, and the types of cancer that can be treated by it.

Robotic surgery has completely changed the way surgery is performed. The conventional surgical approach is associated with large incisions, slow recovery, and delayed return to routine activities. Even laparoscopic surgery, a safe and effective treatment option for some cancers, has drawbacks, including instruments with limited motion, 2-dimensional images, and relying on a trained assistant to hold the camera.

In comparison, robotic cancer surgery provides the surgeon with high-definition, magnified 3-dimensional vision. The surgeon can access difficult-to-reach malignancies and work at angles that are impossible with open or laparoscopic instruments because of the high degree of freedom provided by the Endo-wristed devices.

A higher level of precision is possible because of motion scaling, which allows the surgeon to reduce the amount of instrument movement compared to finger movement. Furthermore, robotic techniques allow the surgeon to perform the radical operation while preserving critical structures and nerves due to better visualization and access to hard-to-reach places, thus providing patients with excellent outcomes and better quality of life.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, one of the best oncologist in India, always discusses the advantages of minimal access surgery, including robotic surgery, with his patients, so that they can make an informed decision.

• Improved clinical outcome
• Lesser pain
• Reduced blood loss
• Lower risk of postoperative complications
• Shorter hospital stays
• Less scarring
• Quicker recovery
• Better quality of life

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, an experienced surgical oncologist, provides robotic cancer surgery in Bangalore, India, for the following cancers:

Head and neck cancer

Dr. Sandeep Nayak uses advanced robotic surgical approaches such as TORS to address challenging head and neck cancers. It is specially used to treat tongue, throat, and tonsil cancer.

Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS) is a minimally invasive robotic procedure that is done through mouth opening. No external incisions are necessary.

On the other hand, traditional open surgery necessitates extensive incisions across the throat and jaw, which frequently leave patients with noticeable scars, difficulties in breathing or swallowing, and a long recovery.

Colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer surgeries are primarily complex and intricate, so robotic and laparoscopic surgical modalities are mostly preferred. Dr. Sandeep Nayak is an expert in robotic intersphincteric resection (ISR) for low rectal cancers, which helps preserve the anus and avoid permanent stomas in 90% of patients.

Thyroid cancer

RABIT (Robotic-Assisted Breast Axillo Insufflate Thyroidectomy) is an alternative to open thyroid surgery. Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a leading surgical oncologist in India, developed this cutting-edge robot-assisted surgical technique for treating thyroid cancer. Till date, he has performed 500 plus surgeries using this method, which offers better clinical outcomes with fewer complications.

Gynecologic cancers

Robotic surgery is a well-established treatment option for several gynecological malignancies, including ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, fallopian tube cancer, and endometrial cancer.

Urologic cancer

Robotic surgery is a standard surgical technique for treating urologic tumors such as prostate, penile, bladder, and testicular cancer. One procedure that has benefitted the most with robotics is radical prostatectomies, which is 100% performed robotically by Dr. Sandeep Nayak.

Thoracic cancer

The surgeon uses minimally invasive, robotic surgery to treat mediastinal (middle chest) malignancies such as thymus, esophageal, and lung cancer, as it helps to treat hard-to-reach cancer while sparring the nerves and other organs.

If you are planning to undergo robotic cancer surgery, you should follow the necessary steps:

• Be sure to choose the right surgeon with extensive experience performing the type of procedure you are looking for.
• Ask in detail about the procedure and its side effects, as it will help you set realistic expectations.
• If you have any concerns regarding the robotic procedure, talk it out with your surgeon. He will be the right person to clear your doubts and explain why this procedure is the best option for you.

Considering how quickly and frequently the most recent advancements in cancer surgery evolve, it is important to ensure you have all the knowledge you need to make the best choice possible.

The news of stage 4 esophageal cancer in the family or friends can be quite heartbreaking. You are likely to have a lot of queries.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, one of the best oncologists in Bangalore, has kindly and empathetically explained some aspects of surviving stage 4 of esophageal cancer. He starts by giving us an overview of the disease and progresses gradually to what to expect.

Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the esophagus- a tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. It is often diagnosed at a later stage due to the lack of early symptoms. Common symptoms of esophageal cancer may include:

• difficulty swallowing,
• weight loss,
• and chest pain.

There are several types of esophageal cancer, including squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. 

Treatment options may include:

• Surgery
• Chemotherapy,
• Radiation therapy.

 The prognosis for esophageal cancer depends on the following:

• the stage of cancer,
• the location and size of the tumor,
• and the overall health of the patient, including the patient’s age.

In cancer staging, the number “4” refers to the fact that cancer has spread (metastasized) to other body parts. Stage 4 cancer is the most advanced cancer and is often considered incurable.

Cancer stage is determined by:

• the size of the primary tumor,
• the extent to which cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes,
• and whether cancer has metastasized to other parts of the body.

This information is gathered through various diagnostic tests, including biopsies, imaging, and blood tests.

Several factors can affect the progression and prognosis of stage 4 esophageal cancer, including:

• the location and size of the tumor,
• the presence of lymph node involvement,
• and the patient’s overall health and age.

One of the most critical factors affecting the prognosis of stage 4 esophageal cancer is the patient’s age. As cancer progresses to stage 4, it becomes more challenging to treat, and the survival rate decreases. In general, older patients tend to have poorer prognosis than younger patients, as they may have other health problems that make treatment more difficult.

Another critical factor that can affect the prognosis of stage 4 esophageal cancer is the location and size of the tumor. Tumors that are located near the upper part of the esophagus tend to be easier to treat than tumors located near the lower part. Similarly, larger tumors are more challenging to treat than smaller tumors.

Lymph node involvement, also known as nodal metastasis, is also a crucial prognostic factor in esophageal cancer and it plays a vital role in determining treatment strategy and survival.

Overall, the treatment options for stage 4 esophageal cancer are limited and typically include a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. The prognosis for patients with stage 4 esophageal cancer is generally poor, with a five-year survival rate of around 5-10%.

A survival rate is a measure of how many people with a certain type of cancer are still alive a certain amount of time (usually five years) after their diagnosis. The survival rate is often given as a percentage.

“When I mentioned a 5-10% survival rate for stage 4 esophageal cancer, it means that, based on statistical data, of 100 people with stage 4 esophageal cancer, only between 5 and 10 of them will be alive five years after their diagnosis, given that standard treatment options are used.” Says Dr. Sandeep Nayak.

It is important to note that the survival rate is just a general estimation based on statistical data from a group of people, it does not apply to individuals, and an individual’s outcome may be different from the average. Many other factors, such as the patient’s general health, lifestyle, age, genetics, stage of cancer, and availability of new therapies, can affect the outcome. 

When the news of esophageal cancer and that too in its late stage, is given to a patient, one of the primary thoughts that every patient has is their chances given their age. 

“It’s difficult to give an exact survival rate for specific age groups, as many factors can affect a person’s prognosis. In general, however, younger patients tend to have a better prognosis than older patients, as they are typically in better overall health and are better able to tolerate treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy.”-Dr. Sandeep Nayak.

The National Cancer Institute’s Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program does provide some data on survival rates by age group for esophageal cancer. Still, it’s important to note that these figures are based on data from a specific time period and may not represent current trends fully.

Esophageal cancer survival rate by age: Overall five-year survival rate for esophageal cancer is around 20%, but it varies by age group. For people younger than 55, the five-year survival rate is about 27%; for those 55 to 64, it’s about 17%; and for those 65 or older, it’s about 11%.

It’s worth noting that survival rate by age group can also be affected by different treatment options and the availability of specialized care and expertise in treating esophageal cancer in a particular area. It’s also important to note that the survival rate may not tell the whole story, the quality of life after treatment and survival is also paramount. It’s always best to consult with a doctor who can provide more specific information based on an individual’s diagnosis and treatment plan.

The survival rate data mentioned earlier is based on the survival of patients diagnosed with esophageal cancer.

Stage 4 esophageal cancer life expectancy without treatment: If stage 4 esophageal cancer is left untreated, it will continue to grow and spread, eventually leading to death. Life expectancy without treatment can be very low, depending on how advanced the cancer is, how aggressive it is, and how it affects the vital organs.

Stage 4 esophageal cancer life expectancy with treatment: Treatment for stage 4 esophageal cancer typically includes a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. While the prognosis for patients with stage 4 esophageal cancer is generally poor, with a five-year survival rate of around 5-10%, treatment can help to prolong life and improve the patient’s quality of life.

Optimal care for esophageal cancer is multidisciplinary and depends on the cancer stage, overall patient health, tumor location, and more. So, these survival rate data give a general view of people diagnosed with esophageal cancer regardless of the care they received.

Optimal care for esophageal cancer typically involves a team of specialists, including a surgical oncologist, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, and gastroenterologist, working together to develop a personalized treatment plan. These specialists have specialized knowledge and experience in treating esophageal cancer and can often offer treatments and therapies that may not be available at other treatment centers.

 It’s important to note that the survival rate can be different for patients who received optimal care.

If a patient has access to these specialists and the most advanced therapies and treatment options, it’s more likely that the patient will have better chances of survival and better quality of life.

The treatment and palliative care for stage 4 esophageal cancer will typically involve a combination of different approaches, and the specific plan will depend on the patient’s situation.

Surgery is usually not considered a primary treatment option for stage 4 esophageal cancer, as cancer has already spread to distant locations. Surgery is considered palliative rather than curative in stage 4 esophageal cancer; it aims to relieve symptoms caused by the tumor, such as obstruction of the esophagus or swallowing difficulty. These surgeries include the removal of the affected portion of the esophagus and its reconstruction and removal of the affected lymph nodes.

Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It can be used in combination with chemotherapy, prior or post-surgery, and as a palliative treatment to reduce symptoms caused by the tumor, like pain and bleeding.

Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with radiation therapy and can be given before or after surgery. It can also be used as a palliative treatment to slow the tumor’s growth and reduce symptoms such as pain and difficulty swallowing.

Palliative care is an approach that focuses on providing comfort and support to patients and their families rather than treating cancer itself. It includes the management of symptoms such as pain, difficulty swallowing, fatigue, and emotional support. For example, if cancer has blocked the esophagus, a tube called a stent can be placed to open the passage and help in swallowing, which is a form of palliative care.

It’s important to note that while these are the most common treatment options, the specific treatment plan will depend on the individual patient’s diagnosis, overall health, and preferences, as well as the availability of specialized care and expertise in treating esophageal cancer. It’s always best to consult with a specialist who can provide more detailed and specific information based on an individual’s specific diagnosis and treatment plan.

Stage 4 esophageal cancer spread to lungs life expectancy: “If esophageal cancer spreads to the lungs or if there are complications such as tumor obstruction that affect lung function. It can lead to respiratory distress and decreased oxygen levels. In such cases, supplemental oxygen therapy may be considered. An oxygen concentrator can help improve oxygenation. Also helpful in symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue.”

Sometimes if cancer has spread to the lungs, the prognosis is generally worse. The survival rate for esophageal cancer patients with lung metastasis tends to be lower than those without lung metastasis. However, the outcome for an individual patient can vary widely based on many factors, such as the patient’s overall health, the location and size of the tumor, and the availability of specialized care and expertise in treating esophageal cancer.

• Surgery: Surgery is usually not considered a primary treatment option for lung metastasis from esophageal cancer, as cancer has already spread to distant locations. However, surgery may be an option for patients with a limited number of small lung metastases that can be surgically removed.
• Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy may be used to shrink lung metastasis and relieve symptoms. It may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is often used to shrink lung metastasis and reduce symptoms. It can be given alone or in combination with radiation therapy.
• Palliative care: Palliative care is an essential aspect of treatment for patients with lung metastasis. It can include pain and symptom management, emotional support and counseling, and other forms of care that focus on improving the patient’s quality of life.

It’s worth mentioning that the survival rate for esophageal cancer patients with lung metastasis tends to be lower than those without lung metastasis. But again, these figures are based on general statistical data, and the outcome for an individual patient can be quite different. It’s always important to talk to a specialist about the best treatment options for a patient with lung metastasis from esophageal cancer, as well as the expected outcomes and potential side effects of these treatments.

Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS-HIPEC) is a type of supra-major surgery to treat certain cancers of the appendix, colon, mesothelioma, ovary, pseudomyxoma peritonei, and rectum. These cancers can progress within the abdominal cavity, resulting in peritoneal metastases, wherein deposits of tumors develop in the inner layer of your abdomen (peritoneum), as well as on other organs and tissues.

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a specialized treatment used to treat certain types of cancer that have spread to the abdomen (peritoneum). Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) is an integral part of the HIPEC procedure. CRS is the surgical removal of as much cancerous tissue as possible from the abdominal cavity. CRS is followed by the delivery of chemotherapy directly to the abdominal cavity through a heated perfusion solution.

Renowned surgical oncologist in India, Dr. Sandeep Nayak, explains, “The goal of CRS is to reduce the size and number of cancerous tumors in the abdominal cavity as much as possible. This helps to increase the effectiveness of the chemotherapy solution, as it can reach and target more cancer cells.”

Dr. Sandeep Nayak is among the preferred cancer surgeons for people seeking HIPEC treatment in Bangalore. 

Cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC procedures are typically performed by a team of highly experienced surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other medical professionals in an operating room. It usually takes several hours to complete and is typically performed as part of an extensive procedure to remove cancerous tissue.

Here is an overview of the steps involved in Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy treatment:

• Anesthesia: The patient is given general anesthesia to put them to sleep and prevent any pain during the surgery.
• Cytoreductive surgery: CRS is the process that involves the surgical removal of cancerous tissue. The surgeon will make an incision in the abdomen and remove as much cancerous tissue as possible. This may include the removal of organs or other tissue, depending on the location and extent of the cancer. 
• Insertion of a heated perfusion system: A heated perfusion system is inserted into the abdominal cavity through a small incision. This system circulates a heated chemotherapy solution throughout the abdominal cavity.
• Administration of chemotherapy: The chemotherapy solution is perfused through the abdominal cavity for a specific period, usually around 90 minutes. The heat helps to increase the effectiveness of the chemotherapy.
• Closure of the incision: Once the chemotherapy has been administered, the incision is closed, and the patient is taken to the recovery room to awaken from the anesthesia.

HIPEC is a complex and highly specialized procedure and is not available at all cancer centers.

‌Dr. Sandeep Nayak says, “HIPEC is typically reserved for patients with advanced-stage cancer that has spread to the peritoneum. It is usually used in combination with other cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.” 

Cancer specialist ‌Dr. Sandeep Nayak may employ HIPEC and Cytoreductive surgery to treat advanced-stage cancer that has spread to the peritoneum, a thin layer of tissue that lines the abdominal cavity and surrounds the abdominal organs. This type of cancer is known as peritoneal carcinomatosis.

1. Peritoneal carcinomatosis can occur in various types of cancer, such as:
2. Appendiceal cancer: Cancer that arises when the cells that make up your appendix divide and multiply uncontrollably.
3. Colorectal cancer: Cancer that develops in the cells between your colon (large intestine) and rectum (anus).
4. Gastric or stomach cancer: A relatively rare type of cancer that develops in the stomach lining.
5. Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneal), lungs (pleural), or heart (pericardial). It is caused due to exposure to asbestos, a fibrous mineral once widely used in building materials, insulation, and other products.
6. Ovarian cancer: Cancer that occurs in the ovaries. 
7. Psuedo-myxoma peritonei: Cancer that occurs in the cells lining the inside of your belly and produces jelly-like material.

According to oncology expert Dr. Sandeep Nayak, “Complex judgments must be made when treating peritoneal disease patients. We believe that in order to help patients get the best results, every one of these individuals should be screened at a specialized facility with a highly-skilled and focused team.”

• The median overall survival for patients with colorectal peritoneal metastases receiving chemotherapy alone ranges between 8 – 15 months, but for those receiving CRS-HIPEC, the median survival is between 22 – 47 months, with a 5-year survival rate of 27% to 54%.
• CRS-HIPEC has significantly increased 5-year survival in patients treated for appendix peritoneal metastases and mesothelioma from less than 10% – 50% to 90% and is now the norm for these types of tumors.
• Studies conducted on 1051 patients treated for ovarian cancer with CRS-HIPEC indicated a median survival of 73 months. 
• Additionally, a couple of phase 3 randomized clinical trials examining CRS-HIPEC in recurring and primary grade III ovarian cancer showed that HIPEC produced a 2-fold overall survival rate and overall survival benefit of 11 months, respectively.

An Oncologist in India, Dr. Sandeep Nayak says, “The ability to recover following CRS-HIPEC treatment relies on the severity of your cancer and the scope of the procedure. The length of surgery might range from 5-12 hours, with a subsequent 10- to 14-day hospital stay. Usually, recovery takes 2-3 months.”

You may experience the following side effects during your recovery period:

• Bloating
• Problems with bowel movements – constipation/diarrhea
• Trouble sleeping
• Weight loss
• Nausea
• Tiredness

An Oncologist in India, Dr. Sandeep Nayak says, “The ability to recover following CRS-HIPEC treatment relies on the severity of your cancer and the scope of the procedure. The length of surgery might range from 5-12 hours, with a subsequent 10- to 14-day hospital stay. Usually, recovery takes 2-3 months.”

You may experience the following side effects during your recovery period:

• Bloating
• Problems with bowel movements – constipation/diarrhea
• Trouble sleeping
• Weight loss
• Nausea
• Tiredness

What is removed in Cytoreductive surgery?

CRS involves the removal of visible malignant tumors from the abdominal cavity. The next step is HIPEC, where the cavity is drenched in hot chemotherapy heated to 42 °C to eliminate any tiny cancer cells that may still be present.

How is HIPEC different from traditional chemotherapy?

Traditional chemotherapy is administered intravenously to target cancer cells. Unfortunately, peritoneal carcinomatosis frequently has a low or restricted blood supply, making it more challenging for intravenous chemotherapy to destroy these tumors. 

Thanks to HIPEC, chemotherapy medications are able to interact directly with microscopic cells that remain in the peritoneal cavity.