The esophagus

Abstract

Esophageal surgery is performed for both benign and malignant diseases and ranges in complexity depending on the degree of access required to the thorax and mediastinum and whether anastomoses are formed. Radical esophageal resection carries a significant mortality and morbidity. Radiology has an important role in both patient selection for surgery and the assessment and treatment of postoperative complications. A thorough understanding of operative procedures and normal postoperative anatomy is key to ensure that imaging techniques are optimized to detect these complications and guide management.