Following an oesophagectomy for oesophagogastric cancer, patients can experience significant issues such as dysphagia, weight loss and malnutrition, which means that they require nutritional support. This article details a literature review that sought to explore the experience of patients who had undergone an oesophagectomy, as well as investigating how nurses might enhance the management of patients’ nutritional status. Analysis of data from six primary qualitative research studies led to the identification of three themes: feelings associated with eating and maintaining nutritional status; social disengagement and isolation; and managing bodily impairments. Nurses should initiate early discussions with patients with oesophagogastric cancer to assess their nutritional needs, ensure prompt referral to a dietitian and/or clinical nurse specialist in nutrition, and signpost patients to appropriate support services.