Quality of Life Outcomes Following Minimally Invasive and Open Esophagectomy for Esophageal Cancer

Quality of Life Outcomes Following Minimally Invasive and Open Esophagectomy for Esophageal Cancer

The goal of this study is to evaluate how surgery for esophageal cancer affects the patient's quality of life over time. The investigators hope this study will provide important information that can be used to improve the quality of life of patients with esophageal cancer. This study will also look at how standard tests and information collected from the patients difficulty swallowing can predict the extent of their esophageal cancer before surgery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 18 or older
• Diagnosis of esophageal cancer, stages I-IIIC, with no prior esophageal resection. Neoadjuvant therapy given prior to presentation at MSKCC will be accepted.
• Anticipated to undergo surgical resection (Ivor Lewis, Trans Hiatal, thoracoabdominal, or McKeown procedure) of esophageal cancer either by open or minimally invasive methods
• Chest and abdomen CT scan
• Ability to speak read and write English.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Inability to give informed consent
• Patients requiring a laryngectomy or colon interposition as part of their surgical resection.
• Patients with scleroderma.