Has anyone had esophageal cancer surgery with stomach reconstruction?

Thank you for sharing such a difficult and deeply personal experience with the community. The type of surgery you're describing - an esophagectomy with gastric pull-up reconstruction - is indeed a complex procedure that can have significant recovery challenges. Your strength in surviving such an intensive experience and five-month ICU stay is remarkable, and connecting with others who have undergone similar surgeries can provide valuable insights and support during your healing journey.

This is exactly what I’m nervous about in getting this recommended surgery. Went for a consultation last year and the surgeon fat shamed me even though at that point I had lost about 100lbs from my original weight because i was having so many issues eating. When i told him my original weight … his attempt at a joke was “well it’s a good thing you got cancer” . Ever since this meeting I have been very skeptical about getting this surgery but being pushed to consult with a different surgeon.

I was also told that I needed that surgery. Oncologist said after chemo and radiation it is considered standard of care. I went to a surgeon who said if was an extremely risky surgery and minimum stay in icu is 2 weeks. He said to really think about it and talk to people which I did. I chose not to do it as my lifestyle would be sooo compromised even if surgery went perfectly. After reading about your journey, I am relieved I didn’t but so sad for you! Please hang in there and remember you are in God’s hands!

Yes. I also had an esophagectomy. Mine went better. Only a 7-8 hour surgery and other than losing a spleen it went well. 1 day in ICU then 11 days in hospital. Feeding tube for 6 weeks then liquids. Then back to regular food. Sorry to hear yours was an ordeal. Hope you’re doing better now.

I’m so glad you didn’t have to go through what Bill did! However I’m confused. You said you are eating solid food. My surgeon said there would be no more solid food?

That’s interesting. Mine told me there would be a progression. Feeding tube, liquids, soft foods, then whatever I could tolerate. The dietitian I worked with had worked with other esophagectomy patients who were eating normal foods. I can eat anything but hamburger, rich foods, can cause me fatigue and/or bowel issues.