Esophageal cancer management controversies: Radiation oncology point of view

Table 2 Pros and cons of pre-operative therapy for esophageal cancer

Pre-op therapy	Pros	Intact vascular supply allowing for potential improved oxygenation for radiotherapy
		Smaller radiotherapy volume
		Potential tumor downstaging
		Sterilization of tumor bed in preparation for surgery
		Improve resectability
	Cons	Treatment decision based on clinical stage, may over-treat patients
		Narrow window for surgical resection post CRT, may increase surgical complications with pre-op CRT
		Dysphagia and issue of nutrition support due to tumor and treatment

CRT: Chemoradiation therapy.