Chemoradiotherapy Followed by Planned Surgery or by Surveillance and Surgery Only When Needed for Oesophageal Cancer

This study is comparing two treatment paths for patients with locally advanced squamous cell esophageal cancer (a type of food pipe cancer). One group will have planned surgery after chemoradiotherapy; the other will be watched closely and only have surgery if their cancer returns. The goal is to determine if surgery can safely be avoided in some patients. **You may be eligible if:** - You have confirmed squamous cell esophageal cancer that is locally advanced (not spread to distant organs) - Your cancer is considered removable by your surgical team - You are in good general health (ECOG performance status 0-1) - Your organ function is adequate for treatment - Women of childbearing potential must use highly effective contraception **You may NOT be eligible if:** - Your cancer has spread to distant organs (stage M1) - Your cancer is so advanced it cannot be removed without removing the voice box (laryngectomy) - You have significant heart, kidney, liver, or lung problems that prevent chemotherapy plus radiation - You are pregnant or breastfeeding Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.