DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically proven squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma of the thoracic esophagus (adenocarcinoma stratum closed) Locally advanced and surgically resectable (T2-4 N0-1 M0) T1 N1 tumors are eligible, T1 N0 tumors and in situ carcinoma are not eligible No cervical esophageal tumors No brain, pulmonary, liver, bone, lymph node (cervical or supraclavicular) or other distant metastases No positive cytology of the pleura, pericardium, or peritoneum No invasion of the tracheobronchial tree or presence of tracheoesophageal fistula