PERIOPERATIVE CHEMOTHERAPY IN ADVANCED STAGE OF ESOPHAGEAL-CARCINOMA

51 patients with advanced stage of esophageal cancer were treated by perioperative chemotherapy. Mostly PEF (Cisplatin(P), Etoposid E), 5-Fluorouracil(F), and in some cases FLE(P) (Leucovorin(L) was used. Response to chemotherapy (CR+PR) was found in 31% (PEF 52%). Seven secondary resections of the esophagus were performed. Two patients refused surgery after CR. Median survival was 9.8 months, after CR 20.6 months, after secondary resection 17.3 months. Recurrence after secondary resection occurred after 8.2 (5.3 - 12.8) months. Perioperative chemotherapy in advanced stage of esophageal cancer influenced Survival. CR and PR plus secondary resection is comparable to primary resection at stage II (UICC). Perioperative chemotherapy and surgery may improve survival at earlier stages of disease.