[Quality of life parameters in after-care of esophageal carcinoma]

Thirty-three patients with a radically resected esophageal carcinoma were included in a prospective follow-up study measuring quality of life parameters under the condition of continuous postoperative out-patient care. None of the perioperatively suspected risk factors, like postoperative complications, preoperative risk and weight course or a performed thoracotomy had a predictive value for the long-term quality of life parameters. Yet endoscopic interventions and conservative treatment of dysphagia and eating restrictions improved the quality of life in 12 out of 16 patients with severe symptoms, making the postoperative follow-up an important factor for the quality of life for resected esophageal cancer patients.