In stunning news that’s set to inspire hope across the medical community and beyond, Danang Oncology announced on June 28 one of the most complex and successful surgeries ever performed—a dual removal of esophageal and liver cancers from a single patient. This monumental achievement has not only cemented the hospital’s reputation but also offered a beacon of hope for cancer patients worldwide.

Mr. T., a 45-year-old resident of Lyse Docdoa, first visited Da Nang Tumor Hospital complaining of difficulty swallowing and frequent hiccups. These symptoms, while common, eventually led to a diagnosis of esophageal cancer in its midpoint. Further examinations revealed a tumor of 43mm and the presence of T3N0M0 cancer, along with chronic hepatitis B, which heightened concerns about potential liver cancer.

Initially, the diagnosis team was cautious and observed liver lesions while pursuing a pre-operative radiation therapy for the esophageal tumor. However, the latter rapidly grew, reaching a significant size that deemed it operable under BCLC A criteria for liver cell carcinoma.

As Nguyen Van Hi Ban, a gifted surgeon at Danang Oncology, pointed out, the risks were frighteningly high. Resection of the esophagus is a notoriously difficult procedure, compounded by the challenges of liver resection. Adding these together in a single surgery presented severe technical, anesthetic, and postoperative management hurdles.

Despite the risks, the team, after thorough consultations, chose to proceed with the radical operation. The surgery, performed in May 2025, entailed precision, teamwork, and unwavering resolve. Moreover, Mr. T’s recent chemotherapy had weakened him, increasing the complications potential during the extended anesthesia period.

The surgery was a triumph. Under meticulous care and a coordinated effort, the team successfully removed both the esophageal and liver cancers. Post-surgery, Mr. T. received intensive nutritional counseling and careful monitoring. By June 20, he was strong enough to be discharged, signaling a remarkable recovery.

Dr. Hi Ban reflected on the challenges and success, stating, “This surgery was a pinnacle of complex procedures, requiring interdisciplinary cooperation and expert experience. We are grateful for how the patient withstood it, and the success inspires us for future treatment possibilities.”

This breakthrough showcases how medical advancements can vastly improve cancer treatment outcomes. The ability to perform a dual major surgery has wide-ranging implications for people diagnosed with multiple primary cancers. It suggests that with the right expertise and patient commitment, even the most challenging medical tasks can be overcome.

Looking ahead, researchers will likely build upon this case to develop better understanding and methods in oncologic surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy synchronization. Such cross-disciplinary advancements promise a future where complex cases like Mr. T.’s become more manageable, boosting patient prognosis worldwide.