Results of the surgical treatment of carcinoma of the esophagus.

Between 1972 and 1980, 360 patients were operated upon for the treatment of carcinoma of the esophagus at this university hospital. By adopting a policy of routine endoscopy in all patients with minor esophageal symptoms, early diagnosis was possible. Nutritional and respiratory support preoperatively and postoperatively diminished anastomotic leakages and pulmonary complications.