OBJECTIVES: I. Evaluate the quality of life of patients with esophageal cancer randomized on protocol CALGB C9781 to treatment with surgery alone vs trimodal therapy combining preoperative chemotherapy and radiation therapy in addition to surgery. II. Examine the incremental cost and cost effectiveness of preoperative chemotherapy and radiation therapy in the treatment of esophageal cancer. III. Examine the incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) of preoperative chemotherapy and radiation therapy in the treatment of esophageal cancer.