Oesophageal and Stomach Cancer
For any urgent referrals, Dr Lourensz aims to see you quickly, explain your results clearly, and coordinate your tests and treatment with the wider cancer team, so you always know what is happening next.
Did You Know?
Each year, around 1,800 Australians are diagnosed with oesophageal cancer and around 2,600 with stomach cancer. Both are more common in men.
Source: Cancer Australia, AIHW estimates for oesophageal cancer (2025) and stomach cancer (2024)
Symptoms That Need Checking
- trouble swallowing that is new or getting worse
- unexplained weight loss
- persistent indigestion or upper abdominal pain, especially over the age of 55
- vomiting, or feeling full after small amounts
- anaemia, black stools or vomiting blood
Diagnosis and Staging
The diagnosis is made with a gastroscopy and biopsies. Further tests show whether and where the cancer has spread. These usually include a CT scan and PET scan, and sometimes an endoscopic ultrasound or a keyhole look inside the abdomen (staging laparoscopy).
Treatment
Every plan is discussed at a multidisciplinary meeting with oncologists, radiation oncologists, gastroenterologists, radiologists, pathologists, dietitians and nurses. Depending on the stage, treatment may include:
- endoscopic removal for some very early cancers
- chemotherapy, or chemotherapy and radiotherapy, before and sometimes after surgery
- Oesophagectomy: removal of the cancer and part of the oesophagus, usually using the stomach to rebuild the food pipe
- Gastrectomy: removal of part or all of the stomach
Recovery
These are major operations. Most people stay in hospital for one to two weeks, and recovery continues over several months. You will have dietitian support before and after surgery, and ongoing follow-up.
Dr Lourensz's PhD research looked at how the rebuilt food pipe works after oesophagectomy, including how it empties and how this relates to symptoms and recovery. Read about his research.
Referrals
For suspected upper GI cancer, please mark the referral urgent and call the rooms on 03 8584 2399. See Information for referrers.
Reviewed by Dr Kaleb Lourensz · Last reviewed October 2026