Palliative management of esophageal cancer

Symptomatic esophageal cancer is usually an advanced disease and only palliation is possible in the majority of the cases. Endoscopic methods of palliation are becoming very popular because of the simplicity and the low incidence of morbidity and mortality. Endoscopic laser therapy, dilatation, placement of endoprosthesis, bipolar electrocoagulation, and injection therapy are the various methods currently in use. The advantages and disadvantages of different methods are discussed and the need for controlled trials highlighted.