Why Choose Us for Esophageal Cancer Care
At Huntsman Cancer Institute, we offer comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for esophageal cancer. ​You are supported by a group of experts, including ​thoracic surgeons, surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, gastroenterologists, radiologists, pathologists, and supportive care providers​. Your treatment plan is​ ​personalized​ based on your diagnosis and treatment goals​. We focus on ​preserving your quality of life​ ​using advanced surgical techniques (including minimally invasive and robotic approaches), precision radiation, and systemic therapies.
“My doctor listens to my concerns, celebrates my wins and helps find solutions. I feel they are a great partner in my health care."
—Esophageal Cancer Patient
Treatments​ We Offer​
Treatment ​depends on your cancer ​stage, ​location, and overall ​health. ​Common o​ptions include the following:
- Surgery (esophagectomy, minimally invasive or open)
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy (neoadjuvant, adjuvant, or definitive)
- Targeted therapy or immunotherapy when applicable
- Combined modality approaches (e.g., chemoradiation)
Our Expertise
​​​​As the National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center serving the Mountain West, we’re here to offer you the latest treatments and the highest level of care available:​​​
- ​​​M​ultidisciplinary tumor boards to coordinate care and fine tune treatment​ ​​ ​​
- ​​​A​dvanced surgical techniques including minimally invasive esophagectomy​ ​​
- ​​​I​ntegration of clinical trials​
Patient Care Philosophy
We believe no one should face cancer alone. Our dedicated and world-renowned doctors, nurses, and medical staff are at the forefront of patient-centered care. We treat the whole person, not just their cancer.
Each day, our medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists work together across disciplines to create and coordinate treatment plans for every patient. We understand cancer is a complex disease. That is why we use a team approach that includes social workers and support groups, as well as wellness and integrative health services such as acupuncture, massage, creative arts, and more.
Find an Esophageal Cancer Doctor
Esophageal Cancer Research​ ​
​​​​Our expert research teams are working to improve treatment​​ for esophageal cancer, testing novel systemic therapies, radiation approaches, and surgical strategies.​ Through clinical trials, we explore new therapies that may offer better outcomes.​​
​​​By participating, you play an active role in advancing care and helping others facing the same diagnosis.​​
​​​Interested in learning more?​​
​​​Talk to your doctor about whether a clinical trial could be right for you.​​
Clinical Trials
Make an Appointment with an Esophageal Cancer Specialist
To make an appointment with an esophageal cancer specialist, fill out our appointment form or call 801-587-7000. Our team will determine if your insurance covers treatment at Huntsman Cancer Institute or if you need a referral from a primary care doctor.
External providers can refer a patient using the online referral form or by calling 801-587-7000 to speak to a patient registration specialist.
Esophageal Cancer Basics
Esophageal cancer develops when malignant​ (cancerous)​ cells form in the lining of the esophagus — the muscular tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach.
These are warning signs of esophageal cancer:​​​​​
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Unintentional weight loss
- Pain or discomfort in the chest or back
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Chronic cough or hoarseness
- Vomiting or regurgitation
- ​​Bloody or dark stools​​​
​​​Many of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions. If you are ​experiencing​ any concerning signs, please schedule a screening today.​​
​​​​These are risk factors for esophageal cancer:​​​​​
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) / Barrett’s esophagus
- Smoking
- Heavy alcohol use
- Obesity
- Diet low in fruits and vegetables
- ​​Certain genetic syndromes or family history​​​
​​​​Understand your risk. Schedule a genetic counseling session today.​​​
Diagnosis
​​​​To diagnose esophageal cancer, providers may use the following:​​​ ​​
- Endoscopy with biopsy
- Imaging (CT, PET, endoscopic ultrasound)
- Laboratory assessments
- Multimodal staging
Staging
- Stage 0: carcinoma in situ
- Stage 1I: tumor limited to mucosa/submucosa
- Stage 2II/II3I: deeper invasion or regional lymph nodes
- Stage 4IV: metastatic disease
​​​​Need help navigating your care? The Cancer Learning Center is here to support you with personalized guidance, resources, and answers to your questions.​​​
