Evidence-based review of the management of cancers of the gastroesophageal junction

Abstract

The management of localized esophageal cancer has traditionally been surgical resection; yet, despite improvements in outcomes and techniques, survival for patients with esophageal cancer, especially those with evidence of nodal involvement, remains poor. In this article, we have used an evidence-based approach to define optimal therapy based on clinical stage for esophageal cancer. We review the currently available evidence supporting the use of neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies for locally advanced esophageal cancer. Additionally, we review the evidence supporting the role of endoscopic therapies, rather than resection, for early-stage esophageal cancer.