According to recent studies, esophageal cancer ranks among the top ten most commonly diagnosed malignant diseases, with squamous cell carcinoma being the most frequently diagnosed type. Treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus in Israel is carried out according to an individual comprehensive program that includes the most effective modern methods. With timely initiation of therapy, more than 85% of patients achieve long-term stable remission. In advanced stages of the disease, palliative therapy is conducted to alleviate painful symptoms and normalize the patient's condition, allowing them to return to their normal life.
In 20% of patients, esophageal oncopathology is diagnosed at an advanced stage, which is explained by the asymptomatic progression of the initial stages. Israeli clinics are equipped with the latest technology that allows for the detection of tumours of the smallest size, accurately determining their characteristics necessary for selecting the most effective drugs that do not harm the patient's body. Accurate diagnostics are also important for confirming existing diagnoses, which turn out to be incorrect in a quarter of patients from the former CIS countries. Furthermore, the cost of treatment in Israel is accessible for medical tourists and significantly lower than in clinics in Western European countries and the USA.
Current Treatment Methods for the Disease
The choice of treatment methods depends on the stage of the pathology, the size and location of the tumour, the extent of the malignant process, and the overall condition of the patient. The individual comprehensive program is based on the main methods of anti-tumour therapy: surgical removal of the neoplasm, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.
Surgical Treatment
Depending on the size and stage of development of the tumour, various types of surgical interventions are used. In the early stages of the disease, in the absence of metastases in the regional lymph nodes and distant organs, esophagectomy is most commonly performed — the removal of the segment of the esophagus involved in the malignant process, followed by the connection of the remaining part to the stomach. A localized tumour on the wall of the esophagus that has not spread to the deeper layers of tissues can be removed during esophagoscopy. In this case, a catheter with a conductor delivering high-frequency electric current is introduced through the patient's larynx. When the current affects the tumour, the temperature increases, resulting in the destruction of cancer cells.
Israeli surgeons prefer minimally invasive laparoscopic and endoscopic surgical methods. Surgical instruments and a laparoscope with a camera are introduced through several small incisions. Such operations are not associated with a high risk of bleeding and complications and are characterized by a short and uncomplicated recovery period. The patient's condition is continuously monitored in the first days after the procedure, and any painful symptoms are alleviated with medication.
Stenting
In the terminal stages of cancer, patients typically exhibit conditions that make surgical operation impossible. In such cases, a stent is placed to prevent narrowing of the esophagus and alleviate the patient's condition. The procedure is performed under ultrasound control. In cases of stenosis, electrocautery may also be prescribed to eliminate the narrowing of the esophagus and stop bleeding.
Photodynamic Therapy
This method is based on the introduction of a photosensitizing agent into the esophagus, which accumulates in pathological cells and significantly increases their sensitivity to light. Then, a laser is directed to the tumour endoscopically, and targeted irradiation of the malignant focus is performed. Under the influence of laser irradiation, the temperature increases, and cancer cells are literally vaporized. The destruction of malignant tissues leads to a reduction in the tumour and a favorable prognosis.
Radiotherapy
The effect of ionizing radiation has a destructive effect on cancer cells. To increase effectiveness, radiotherapy is combined with a course of chemotherapy. Radiotherapy is prescribed before surgical operation to reduce the size of the tumour and facilitate its subsequent removal. After surgery, irradiation is aimed at destroying any remaining malignant cells in the patient's body and preventing recurrence.
In Israeli clinics, external beam radiation is performed on modern equipment using the latest techniques, such as IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy). This method allows for the modulation of radiation intensity in different areas of the neoplasm while minimizing impact on healthy tissues. Another effective method is contact radiotherapy — brachytherapy, where a capsule containing a radioactive element is inserted directly into the tumour tissues. Internal irradiation of the tumour is highly effective and safe for the patient.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy can be used both in conjunction with radiotherapy and as a standalone treatment method. It is prescribed before and after surgical intervention to reduce the size of the tumour, destroy remaining malignant cells, and prevent metastasis and recurrence. Numerous patient reviews indicate that Israeli clinics use the latest generation of chemotherapy drugs, which are much less toxic than traditional ones and cause fewer side effects.
Targeted Therapy
This innovative method is based on the targeted action of drugs specifically on cancer cells without damaging healthy ones. Studies show that the inclusion of targeted drugs in the treatment program increases its effectiveness by an average of 50%.
Immunotherapy
For the treatment of esophageal cancers, immunotherapeutic agents based on monoclonal antibodies specific to the cells of this tumour are used. Under the influence of these agents, the masking of cancer cells that prevents their recognition and destruction by the patient's immune cells is disrupted. As a result, the anti-tumour activity of the patient's immune system is stimulated.
How the Diagnosis of the Disease is Conducted
Comprehensive diagnostic examinations in Israeli clinics take no more than three days.
First Day
During the initial consultation, the treating oncologist reviews the patient's medical history, existing medical documentation, conducts a physical examination, and prescribes necessary examinations.
Second Day
Completion of prescribed examinations, including:
- general and biochemical blood tests;
- blood tests for specific tumour markers;
- gastroscopy;
- biopsy;
- visual imaging methods (CT, PET-CT, MRI);
- endoscopic ultrasound.
Third Day
After completing the examinations, a medical council consisting of the treating oncologist and several specialized experts reviews the results, makes a final diagnosis, and develops a treatment program.
How Much Does Treatment Cost
The final amount is determined after the patient undergoes diagnostic examinations and a treatment plan is prescribed. On average, the cost of treatment in Israel is 30-50% lower than in comparable clinics in Western Europe and the USA.
Advantages of Treatment in Israel
- High qualification and experience of oncologists, many of whom are recognized worldwide.
- Accurate diagnostics on the latest equipment.
- Use of innovative treatment methods.
- Professional performance of endoscopic and laparoscopic surgeries.
- Affordable prices.
Recovery from squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus is possible; the main thing is not to waste time and to start treatment as soon as possible. So do not hesitate, choose a clinic, and trust your health to top-class specialists.