Synchronous Tumors: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Esophageal and Lung Cancer

Abstract

Introduction: Synchronous esophageal and lung cancer is an uncommon entity with few descriptions in the literature. It poses a relevant challenge to health care providers regarding its management and surgical approach. Case report: We present the case of a 73-year-old male diagnosed with lung squamous-cell carcinoma after admission for a history of productive cough and episodic hemoptysis. An esophageal squamous-cell carcinoma was diagnosed. Both tumors were histologically different. A surgical procedure was conducted with concomitant esophagectomy and lobectomy. The patient had no postoperative complications and was discharged home after 15 days post-surgery. Conclusions: The diagnosis of synchronous tumors is challenging and should be based on clinical, imaging and histological criteria. Choosing to perform a surgical procedure for resection of both tumors in the same operative time represents a technical challenge, but has shown to have good impact on morbidity and mortality. Documenting such cases is important in order to improve management of these clinical situations, allowing for better outcomes for these patients. (c) Celsius Publishing House.