Esophageal cancer is cancer that develops in the esophagus, the muscular 10- to 13-inch tube that connects the throat to the stomach. The esophagus is located just behind the trachea and allows food to enter the stomach for digestion. The wall of the esophagus is made up of several layers and cancers generally start from the inner layer and grow out. Learn more from our online health library 
Inova Thoracic Oncology Program offers many treatment options for esophageal cancer, including the full spectrum of radiation oncology and chemotherapy treatment alternatives in addition to new minimally invasive techniques like photodynamic therapy (PDT).
Available through our Center for Advanced Endoscopy, PDT uses photosensitizing agents that are activated by light to kill cancer cells. Patients in the past often required surgery to remove the esophagus. Today PDT combines endoscopy with modern laser technology to access and destroy cancerous cells, often without need for further surgery.
Learn more about the Inova Thoracic Oncology Program and how we care for patients with esophageal cancer.
