In this paper, clinical investigations of A3 esophageal cancer are discussed with regard to the radiological findings, surgical findings, effects of the preoperative combined chemo-and radiotherapy and prognosis.
Radiological findings of the A3 esophageal cancer were recognized by irregularity, roughness, penetration and perforation of the esophageal wall, stenosis, bending and elevation of the esophagus at and around the lesions. Surgical exploration proved that A3 esophageal cancer invaded into the neighboring organs such as aorta, lung, trachea, diaphragm and pericardium. Among them the aorta was most frequently involved. The effects of preoperative combined therapy on the A3 esophageal cancer could not be expected. The prognosis of the A3 esophageal cancer was not good compared with A0-2 cancer. In order to improve the prognosis, preoperative and postoperative combined chemo-and radiotherapy and complete resection of esophageal lesions with invaded neighboring structures should be performed.
