1999 Volume 54 Pages 48-51
In our hospital, We experienced 42 esophageal cancer cases from Jan. 1997 to Dec. 1998 (Table 1) . Among 42 cases, we performed argon plasma coagulation (APC) of 10 advanced esophageal cancer cases and a case of conditioning fistulas cased by leakage after esophagectomy of esophageal cancer (Table 2) .
Nine advanced cancer cases implanted selfexpanding metal stent (Boston scientific Japan K. K.) after APC and 8 cases could take regular diet after implantation of metal stent. Two cases of tumor overgrowth out of metal stent, treated by APC again and improved symptoms after APC.
There were no fetal complications, however, 9 cases had fever, 5 chest pain and/or heart burn and 3 vomiting after APC (Table 3) .
Indications of APC for esophageal cancer were as follows, tumor ingrowth and overgrowth of metal stent, reduction of tumor volume, residual lesions or local recurrence after endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) of early cancer and conditioning of fistula.
In our study, We considered APC was safe and effective treatment and useful of tumor reduction for advanced esophageal cancer before implantation of metal stent.
