Clinical Trials

Inclusion Criteria:

• Histologic diagnosis of cancer of the mid or distal esophagus or gastroesophageal junction
• Planned curative intent treatment at Mayo Clinic with CRT followed by esophagectomy
• Age ≥ 18 years
• Negative pregnancy test dose ≤7 days prior to registration, for women of childbearing potential only
• Ability to undergo stress cardiac MRI
• Ability to provide informed written consent

Exclusion Criteria: 

• History of previous radiotherapy to the chest
• Medical contraindication to stress cardiac MRI (including contraindication to gadolinium or
  • Patients with implanted metallic devices, defibrillators, pacemakers, etc. will not be eligible
• Patients with active asthma or COPD
• Uncontrolled intercurrent illness including, but not limited to, ongoing or active infection, symptomatic congestive heart failure, unstable angina pectoris, cardiac arrhythmia, or psychiatric illness/social situations that would limit compliance with study requirements.