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Staging Laparoscopy

 Staging laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to determine the extent of esophageal cancer and whether it has spread beyond the esophagus. This procedure helps doctors decide on the most appropriate treatment plan by providing real-time insights into cancer staging.

Esophageal cancer can spread to nearby lymph nodes, organs, or the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum). Imaging tests like CT scans and PET scans provide useful information, but they may miss very small cancer deposits. A staging laparoscopy offers a more accurate assessment by allowing direct visualization of the abdominal cavity.

Heading into the procedure Tony's staging is T3N1M0.

Why is Staging Laparoscopy Performed?

The primary goals of staging laparoscopy in esophageal cancer include:

  • Detecting metastases – Identifying whether the cancer has spread to areas not visible on scans.

  • Assessing operability – Determining if the tumor is resectable (removable by surgery).

  • Guiding treatment decisions – Helping doctors decide if surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or a combination is the best course of action.

  • Biopsy collection – Taking tissue samples from suspicious areas for further analysis.

If the cancer has already spread significantly, surgery isn't offered, and alternative treatments like chemotherapy or targeted therapy may be recommended instead.

What to Expect Before, During, and After the Procedure

Before the Procedure

Preparation for a staging laparoscopy usually involves:

  • Fasting for at least 6-12 hours before surgery.

  • Stopping certain medications (as advised by your doctor).

  • Undergoing blood tests and imaging scans before the procedure.

  • Discussing anesthesia risks and consent with the medical team.

During the Procedure

  • The patient is placed under general anesthesia, meaning they will be asleep and feel no pain.

  • The surgeon makes small incisions in the abdomen, usually one to three.

  • A laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) is inserted to examine the abdominal cavity.

  • The surgeon may take biopsies if suspicious areas are found.

  • The procedure typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes.

After the Procedure

  • The patient is monitored in a recovery room until anesthesia wears off.

  • Most patients can go home the same day or the following day.

  • Some mild discomfort, bloating, or shoulder pain (from gas used to inflate the abdomen) is common.

  • Patients are advised to rest and avoid heavy lifting for a few days.

  • Results are typically available within a few days to a week.


Waiting to go down for the procedure didn't take too long, we arrived at the hospital at 7am, and Tony walked down to theatre at 9am. I found the wait agonising and I was as nervous as hell! Just after 12pm he was wheeled past me on the corridor, much to my amusement he said to the nurse pushing his bed ''there she is! That's the love of my life right there!'' as they went past. He was put onto a ward where we stayed for another couple of hours while they made sure he was stable and okay to go home.
The Upper GI nurse came to visit while we waited to go home and explained they team were very happy with how things look inside and they confirmed there is no spread anywhere else.
Amazing!! News we are both over the moon to hear!
By 2pm we were cleared to go home. Tony was a little tener, but nothing too bad. He snoozed and relaxed for the rest of the day.
Getting shoes / socks on can be a little tricky afterwards while things heal, but this should only last for a few days.




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