Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Barrett's Esophagus

Treatment for Dysplasia or Esophageal Adenocarcinoma

If a person with Barrett's esophagus is found to have high-grade dysplasia or cancer, the doctor will discuss treatment options. These options include:

Surgery: This is usually recommended for those in good health with high-grade dysplasia or early stage cancer. The type of surgery may vary, but it usually involves removing most of the esophagus and pulling the stomach up into the chest to attach it to what remains of the esophagus. Many patients with Barrett's esophagus and high-grade dysplasia or cancer are elderly or have medical conditions that make surgery unwise.
Endoscopic ablation: In these techniques, the Barrett’s lining is destroyed and healthy tissue is allowed to grow in its place. These treatments are given during upper endoscopy, and no surgery is required.

Treatment options include photodynamic therapy (PDT), radiofrequency ablation, and cryotherapy. In PDT, a light-sensitizing drug and laser are used to destroy the abnormal tissue. Extensive data is available on the success and risks of PDT. The drawbacks of PDT include pain after the procedure, risk of stricture (esophageal scarring), and need to avoid direct sunlight for 4-6 weeks. In cryotherapy, the tissue is destroyed by exposing the cells to extreme cold using liquid nitrogen. Early results from this technique show similar success rates to PDT for removal of the abnormal tissue with significantly less side effects.

This page was last updated on: December 12, 2007.

For patient inquiries, call 1-800-492-5538 or If you prefer, you may call the division directly at 410-328-5780.

Email this Page

Print this Page

© 2008 University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). All rights reserved. UMMC is a member of the University of Maryland Medical System, 22 S. Greene Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. 1.800.492.5538 TDD: 1.800.735.2258
Physician Referral: 1.800.373.4111