Multidisciplinary team (MDT) for oesophageal cancer

In most hospitals, a team of specialists called a multidisciplinary team (MDT) meets to plan your treatment.

The MDT may include:

• a surgeon, who specialises in oesophageal and stomach cancers
• an oncologist, who is a doctor specialising in radiotherapy and chemotherapy
• a gastroenterologist, who is a doctor specialising in diagnosing and treating problems with the digestive system
• a specialist nurse, who can give you information and support
• a dietitian, who can give you advice you if you have problems with eating, drinking or weight loss.

It may also include other healthcare professionals, including:

• a speech and language therapist (SLT), who can help with swallowing difficulties
• a palliative care doctor or nurse, who specialises in symptom control
• a physiotherapist, who helps if you have problems moving around
• an occupational therapist, who makes sure you are safe and comfortable at home – they can suggest and arrange minor changes to your home
• a psychologist or counsellor, who can talk with you to help you sort out your feelings and find ways of coping with them.

After the MDT meeting, your cancer doctor or specialist nurse will talk to you about your treatment options. You can decide together on the best treatment plan for you.