Esophageal Complications Research Articles

Late effects in survivors treated for lymphoma as adolescents and young adults: a population-based analysis.

The study objective is to describe and quantify the incidence of treatment-induced late effects in AYA lymphoma patients. Consecutive patients diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) or non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) at 15-24years of age were identified. All patients in British Columbia who received radiation therapy (RT) from 1974 to 2014 with ≥ 5-year survival post-RT were included. Late effects' analyses included only survivors who received RT to the relevant anatomical site(s) and/or relevant chemotherapy, and were reported as cumulative incidence (CI) ± standard error. Three hundred and five patients were identified (74% HL). Median age of diagnosis was 21years. Median follow-up was 19.1years for secondary malignancy and 7.2years for other endpoints. Hypothyroidism was the most prevalent late effect, with a CI of 22.4 ± 2.8% and 35.1 ± 4% at 5 and 10years, respectively. CI of in-field secondary malignancy was 0.4 ± 0.4% at 10years and 2.8 ± 1.2% at 20years. CI of symptomatic pulmonary toxicity was 4.6 ± 1.5% and 6.8 ± 2.0% at 5 and 10years, respectively, and was higher in patients receiving multiple RT courses (p = 0.009). Esophageal complications occurred at a CI of 1.4 ± 0.8% at 5years and 2.2 ± 1.1% at 10years. CI of xerostomia/dental decay was 2.6 ± 1.3% at 5years and 4.9 ± 2.1% at 10years. CI of cardiac disease was at 2.3 ± 0.9% at 5years and 4.4 ± 1.5% at 10years. CI of infertility was 6.5 ± 1.6% at 5years and 9.4 ± 2.1% at 10years. Survivors of AYA lymphoma have a high incidence and diverse presentation of late effects. AYA lymphoma survivors should be educated about their risks of late effects and offered screening and follow-up when appropriate.

Rates of Anastomotic Complications and Their Management Following Esophagectomy: Results of the Oesophago-Gastric Anastomosis Audit (OGAA).

This study aimed to characterize rates and management of anastomotic leak (AL) and conduit necrosis (CN) after esophagectomy in an international cohort. Outcomes in patients with anastomotic complications of esophagectomy are currently uncertain. Optimum strategies to manage AL/CN are unknown, and have not been assessed in an international cohort. This prospective multicenter cohort study included patients undergoing esophagectomy for esophageal cancer between April 2018 and December 2018 (with 90 days of follow-up). The primary outcomes were AL and CN, as defined by the Esophageal Complications Consensus Group. The secondary outcomes included 90-day mortality and successful AL/CN management, defined as patients being alive at 90 day postoperatively, and requiring no further AL/CN treatment. This study included 2247 esophagectomies across 137 hospitals in 41 countries. The AL rate was 14.2% (n = 319) and CN rate was 2.7% (n = 60). The overall 90-day mortality rate for patients with AL was 11.3%, and increased significantly with severity of AL (Type 1: 3.2% vs. Type 2: 13.2% vs. Type 3: 24.7%, P < 0.001); a similar trend was observed for CN. Of the 329 patients with AL/CN, primary management was successful in 69.6% of cases. Subsequent rounds of management lead to an increase in the rate of successful treatment, with cumulative success rates of 85.4% and 88.1% after secondary and tertiary management, respectively. Patient outcomes worsen significantly with increasing AL and CN severity. Reintervention after failed primary anastomotic complication management can be successful, hence surgeons should not be deterred from trying alternative management strategies.

Nasogastric/nasoenteric tube-related adverse events: an integrative review

Objective:to analyze in the scientific literature the evidence on nasogastric/nasoenteric tube related adverse events in adult patients.Method:integrative literature review through the search of publications in journals indexed in PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, LILACS, EMBASE and Scopus, and hand searching, was undertaken up to April 2017.Results:the sample consisted of 69 primary studies, mainly in English and published in the USA and UK. They were divided in two main categories and subcategories: the first category refers to Mechanical Adverse Events (respiratory complications; esophageal or pharyngeal complications; tube obstruction; intestinal perforation; intracranial perforation and unplanned tube removal) and the second alludes to Others (pressure injury related to fixation and misconnections). Death was reported in 16 articles.Conclusion:nasogastric/nasoenteric tube related adverse events are relatively common and the majority involved respiratory harm that resulted in increased hospitalization and/or death. The results may contribute to healthcare professionals, especially nurses, to develop an evidence-based guideline for insertion and correct positioning of bedside enteral tubes in adult patients.

Esophageal Thermal Injury after Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation with High-Power (50 Watts) Radiofrequency Energy.

Background and ObjectivesData regarding the safety of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation using high-power (50 W) radiofrequency (RF) energy in Asian populations are limited. This study was conducted to evaluate the incidence and pattern of esophageal injury after high-power AF ablation in an Asian cohort.MethodsWe searched the prospective AF ablation registry to identify patients who underwent AF ablation with 50 W RF energy using the smart touch surround flow catheter (Biosense Webster, Diamond Bar, CA, USA). Visitag™ (Biosense Webster) was used for lesion annotation with predefined settings of catheter stability (3 mm for 5 seconds) and minimum contact force (50% of time >5 g). All patients underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy at 1 or 3 days after the ablation.ResultsA total of 159 patients (mean age: 63±9 years, male: 69%, paroxysmal AF: 45.3%, persistent AF: 27.7%, long-standing persistent AF: 27.0%) were analyzed. Initially, 26 patients underwent pulmonary vein isolation with 50 W for 5 seconds at each point. The remaining 133 patients underwent prolonged RF duration (anterior 10 seconds and posterior 6 seconds). The incidence rates of esophageal erythema/erosion and superficial ulceration were 1.3% for each type of the lesion. Food stasis, a suggestive finding of gastroparesis, was observed in 25 (15.7%) patients. There were no cases of cardiac tamponade, stroke, or death.ConclusionsIn Asian patients, AF ablations using 50 W resulted in very low rates of mild esophageal complications.

Evaluation of International Contemporary Operative Outcomes and Management Trends Associated With Esophagectomy: A 4-Year Study of >6000 Patients Using ECCG Definitions and the Online Esodata Database.

This study aims to verify the utility of international online datasets to benchmark and monitor treatment and outcomes in major oncologic procedures. The Esophageal Complication Consensus Group (ECCG) has standardized the reporting of complications after esophagectomy within the web-based Esodata.org database. This study will utilize the Esodata dataset to update contemporary outcomes and to monitor trends in practice in an era of rapid technical change. This observational study, based on a prospectively developed specific database, updates esophagectomy outcomes collected between 2015 and 2018. Evolution in patient and operative demographics, treatment, complications, and quality outcome measures were compared between patients undergoing surgery in 2015 to 2016 and 2017 to 2018. Between 2015 and 2018, 6022 esophagectomies from 39 centers were entered into Esodata. Most patients were male (78.3%) with median age 63. Patients having minimally invasive esophagectomy constituted 3177 (52.8%), a chest anastomosis 3838 (63.7%), neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy 2834 (48.7%), and R0 resections 5441 (93.5%). For quality measures, 30- and 90-day mortality was 2.0% and 4.5%, readmissions 9.7%, transfusions 12%, escalation in care 22.1%, and discharge home 89.4%. Trends in quality measures between 2015 and 2016 (2407 patients) and 2017 and 2018 (3318 patients) demonstrated significant (P < 0.05) improvements in readmissions 11.1% to 8.5%, blood transfusions 14.3% to 10.2%, and escalation in care from 24.5% to 20% A significantly (P < 0.05) reduced incidence in pneumonia (15.3%-12.8%) and renal failure (1.0%-0.4%) was observed. Anastomotic leak rates increased from 11.7% to 13.1%, whereas leaks requiring surgery decreased 3.3% and 3.0%, respectively. The Esodata database provides a valuable resource for assessing contemporary international outcomes. This study highlights an increased application of minimally invasive approaches, a high percentage of complications, improvements in pneumonia and key quality metrics, but with anastomotic leak rates still >10%.

S1961 Mediastinal Tuberculosis: A Rare Cause of Spontaneous Esophageal Perforation

INTRODUCTION: Esophageal perforation secondary to mediastinal tuberculosis is a rarely documented medical occurrence. We describe a patient admitted with sudden onset chest pain, followed by hematemesis, who was found to have a spontaneous esophageal perforation with mediastinal aspirates growing Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB). CASE DESCRIPTION/METHODS: A 53 year old male with past medical history of atrial fibrillation on long term anticoagulation presented to the emergency department with sudden onset chest pain. His chest pain was followed by sudden hematemesis. Chest computed tomography (CT) revealed extensive pneumomediastinum consistent with esophageal perforation with mediastinal lymphadenopathy (Figure 1). Barium esophagram confirmed evidence of a large distal esophageal perforation (Figure 2). The patient underwent emergent esophageal stent placement and open repair of perforation. There was no reported evidence of mediastinal granuloma or fistula leading to the esophagus at the level of perforation. Mediastinal fluid cultures later returned positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. DISCUSSION: Esophageal perforation confers a high mortality risk to affected patients. Therefore, swift diagnosis and identification of underlying cause is important. We present a case of esophageal perforation thought to be secondary to tuberculosis induced mediastinal lymphadenopathy (1,2). It is believed that over time, persistent lymphadenopathy erodes though the esophageal wall leading to perforation. Though esophageal complications are only present in 0.15% of patient with active tuberculosis, it is important to identify tuberculosis as a potential cause of spontaneous perforation in at risk populations (3). Failure to confirm this diagnosis may lead to inadequate treatment and exposure to staff and community.Figure 1.: CT revealing mediastinal perforation with free air surrounding esophagus (arrow).Figure 2.: Esophagram revealing contrast (arrow) leaking into mediastinal cavity confirming esophageal perforation.

The impact of fatal complications&#x0D; on surgical esophagocoloplasty outcome&#x0D; in cancer patients

Relevance: The impact of esophageal cancer surgery complications on survival rate remains a challenge due to the complications and mortality associated with surgical esophagocoloplasty.&#x0D; The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of fatal complications (colonic graft necrosis and pneumonia) on surgical esophagocoloplasty outcomes in cancer patients.&#x0D; Results: The analysis included 110 patients treated by colonic esophagoplasty for esophageal carcinomas and gastroesophageal junction carcinomas. The frequency of postoperative complications of degree III-IV according to Clavien-Dindo was 36.4%&#x0D; (40/110). Pneumonia developed in 15% (16/110), colonic graft necrosis – in 5% (6/110). Out of all causes of death (pneumonia, graft necrosis, bleeding, pulmonary thromboembolism), only graft necrosis (odds ratio (OR) 21.112 [95% CI 2.751-162.013]&#x0D; p=0.003) and pneumonia (OR 15.141 [95% CI 3.225-71.089] p=0.001) were the predictors for 90-days’ mortality. Mortality from&#x0D; pneumonia amounted to 37.5% (6/16), from necrosis – 50% (3/6). Median overall survival without pneumonia (n=94) and with&#x0D; pneumonia (n=16) was 26.6 and 8.0 months, respectively (plogrank=0.030; pcox=0.034). Median overall survival without graft necrosis (n=104) and with necrosis (n=6) was 26.6 and 3.7 months, respectively (plogrank=0.0001; pcox=0.001). The patients subjected to&#x0D; colonic esophagoplasty with planning (n=55) had fewer postoperative complications (56.4% [31/55] vs. 16.4% [9/55], p&lt;0.0001),&#x0D; lower risk of their development (OR 0.151, 95% CI 0.0620.369, p&lt;0.0001), higher overall 10-year survival (26.0% vs. 17.7%) and&#x0D; median survival (49.8 vs. 17.4 months, plogrank=0.038, pcox=0.041).&#x0D; Conclusions: Postoperative development of pneumonia or colonic graft necrosis is associated with a significant deterioration in treatment outcomes. Improving the surgical management of cancer patients who require esophagocoloplasty&#x0D; has the potential to improve long-term survival.

541 UTILIZING THE INTERNATIONAL WEB-BASED ESODATA DATABASE TO AUDIT AND DOCUMENT EVOLUTION IN ECCG COMPLICATIONS INCIDENCE, DEFINITIONS AND QUALITY MEASURES

Abstract The Esophageal Complications Consensus Group (ECCG) standardized the reporting of complications associated with esophagectomy in 2015. Since then, international data on patients’ perioperative outcomes have been prospectively recorded in the web-based Esodata.org dataset. This international collaboration provides a unique opportunity to utilize a standardized reporting platform to report current esophagectomy outcomes as well as the evolution of outcomes and quality measures associated with esophagectomy over time. Methods Esophagectomy data on complications and quality measures have prospectively been collected on the Esodata dataset since 2015. Between January 2017 and January 2019, 41 high volume centers recorded outcomes on 3,318 esophageal resections at their institutions. Current complication incidence, as well as trends in patient demographics, operative approaches and quality outcome measures were compared between the 2,407 esophagectomies done between 2015 and 2016 and the 3,318 patients recorded between 2017–2018. Overall results of 6,022 resections in the entire Esodata database as of January 2019 are also reported. Results Demographic outcomes of 6,022 patients included males 78.3%, mean-age 63.3, resections for cancer 96.6%. Operative demographics included minimally invasive procedures 52.8%, chest anastomosis 63.7%, neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy 48.7% and R0 resections 93.5%. Quality measure outcomes included readmissions 9.7%, 30- and 90-day mortality 2.0% and 4.5%, transfusions 12%, escalation in care 22.1%, and discharge home 89.4%. For trends in complications, see Table 1. Trends in quality measures demonstrated improvements in readmissions 11.1–8.5%, blood transfusions 14.3–10.2%, escalation in care 24.5–20% but a decrease in patients being discharged home 91.4–87.8%. Anastomotic leak increased from 11.7% to 13.1% (NS) but leaks requiring surgery decreased 3.3–3.0%. Conclusion The ECCG complications, definitions and quality measures platform provided a standardized approach to not only benchmark outcomes including complications but also to assess trends in service delivery and outcomes over time. The International Esodata Study Group and the Esodata database provided a robust vehicle for assessing contemporary international demographics and outcomes, monitoring practice trends and carrying out future prospective studies.

Analysis of pneumonitis and esophageal injury after stereotactic body radiation therapy for ultra-central lung tumors

ObjectivesSBRT has been associated with serious toxicity in ultra-central lung tumors, but little is known about the incidence and dosimetric correlates of pulmonary and esophageal complications in this setting. Materials and methodsWe retrospectively reviewed SBRT patients whose lung tumor abutted proximal airways, or whose planning target volume overlapped esophagus. All patients received 5–15 fractions of high-dose, image-guided radiation. The primary endpoint was SBRT-related toxicity, with local control and survival as secondary endpoints. ResultsWe included 88 patients. Nineteen patients (22 %) experienced grade ≥3 (G3+) toxicity, including 6 cases of G3+ radiation pneumonitis and 4 cases of G3+ esophageal injury. Two patients developed trachea-esophageal fistula. Overall incidence of radiation pneumonitis was 23 %. Ten patients (11.4 %) succumbed to SBRT-related complications. Multiple dosimetric parameters for lung (including mean lung dose and V20Gy) and esophagus (including maximum point dose) correlated with radiation pneumonitis and esophageal toxicity, respectively. No impact of fractionation on toxicity was seen. ConclusionThis analysis indicates that high rate and multiple manifestations of pulmonary and esophageal toxicity occur after SBRT for ultra-central tumors. In particular, severe radiation pneumonitis and tracheoesophageal fistula are possible. Dosimetric parameters such as mean lung dose and maximum esophageal dose are significantly correlated with toxicity. Further study is needed to optimize the safe delivery of SBRT in these patients.

Comparison of Esophagectomy outcomes between a National Center, a National Audit Collaborative, and an International database using the Esophageal Complications Consensus Group (ECCG) standardized definitions.

The ECCG developed a standardized platform for reporting operative complications, with consensus definitions. The Dutch Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer Audit (DUCA) published a national comparison against these benchmarks. This study compares ECCG data from the Irish National Center (INC) with both published benchmark studies. All patients undergoing multimodal therapy or surgery with curative intent from 2014 to 2018 inclusive were studied, with data recorded prospectively and entered onto a secure online database (Esodata.org). 219 patients (mean age 67; 77% male) underwent open resection, 66.6% via transthoracic en bloc resection. 30-day and 90-day mortality were 0.0 and 0.9%,nrespectively. Anastomotic leak rate was 5.4%, pneumonia 18.2%, respiratory failure 10%, ARDS 2.7%, atrial dysrhythmia 22.8%, recurrent nerve injury 3%, and delirium in 5% of patients. Compared with both ECCG and DUCA, where MIE constituted 47 and 86% of surgical approaches, respectively, overall complications were similar, as were severity of complications; however, anastomotic leak rate was several-fold less, and mortality was significantly lower (P < 0.001). In this consecutive series and comparative audit with benchmark averages from the ECCG and DUCA publications, a low mortality and anastomotic leak rate were the key differential findings. Although not risk stratified, the severity of complications from this 'open' series is consistent with series containing large numbers of total or hybrid MIE, highlighting a need to adhere to these strictly defined definitions in further prospective research and randomized studies.

Evaluation of oesophagoscopy for staging and restaging of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Oesophagoscopy is important in diagnostic and follow up investigation in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Second primary malignancies of the oesophagus have major impact on therapy of the primary tumour. Considering the low incidence of oesophageal second primaries and the serious complication of oesophageal perforation routine oesophagoscopy is being discussed. Incidence of oesophageal second primaries and complication rates in oesophagoscopy were identified in a systematic review. A retrospective analysis was performed in our own patient collective. To evaluate the current practice at German ENT Clinics a survey was conducted. 1053 oesophagoscopies in 800 patients were analysed. In 800 patients seven (0.9 %) synchronous secondary malignancies of the oesophagus occurred. In 253 follow up oesophagoscopies five (2 %) metachronous secondary malignancies were discovered. 14 (1.3 %) complications were detected; oesophageal perforation was only detected in one case (0.1 %). There was no association of certain risk factors with the incidence of secondary malignancies. The review of literature showed an incidence of secondary malignancies for Europe/USA of 1.8 % and for Asia of 4.1 %. Incidence of oesophageal perforation was 0-0.2 %. Survey results showed routine oesophagoscopy in staging (100 %) and regularly in follow up (65.3 %). Oesophagoscopy is a convenient method to detect secondary malignancies of the oesophagus. To allow a selection of patients developing secondary malignancies according to risk profiles further prospective multicentre studies are required.

Thoracic esophageal rupture during sleeve gastrectomy: a case report with successful laparoscopic transhiatal repair

While laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is one of the most common bariatric procedures for morbid obesity, the rate of complications is decreasing. These complications include hemorrhage and gastric leak that are considered life threatening. The esophageal complications in the form of perforation or rupture during LSG are rare and mainly because of iatrogenic reasons, such as blind, unguided instrumentation, which include the bougie (commonly used for gastric calibration during LSG). These complications are potential life threatening. The detection and management of these complications can affect the outcome and minimize the morbidity and avoid the incidence of mortality. We report a case of 38-year-old female, with a body mass index of 42 with iatrogenic rupture of distal and thoracic part of esophagus for >10-cm length during LSG and the immediate full laparoscopic transhiatal primary repair.

P957Characteristics of atrial tachycardia after mitral surgey via biatrial trans-septal approach using high density mapping system

Abstract Background The biatrial trans-septal approach (BTSa) ameliorates mitral valve (MV) exposure in difficult cases when routine left atriotomy doesnt"t allow it. Main steps are an oblique incision on the right atrium (RA), reaching medially the right pulmonary veins (PV), a septal incision from the fossa ovalis, extended up to reach the first incision, then on the left atrium (LA). Purpose We aim to study the arrhythmic burden in this post-surgical context, focusing on atrial tachycardia (AT), to investigate the complexity of several possible circuits. Methods All patients (&amp;gt;18yo) with previous MV surgery via BTSa for MV repair or replacement, who underwent ablation of AT from January 2017 to September 2019, were enrolled. Patients ablated for persistent or paroxysmal AF, or with AF during the index procedure were excluded. Patients with associated surgery on other valves or congenital defects, coronary, surgical or percutaneous rhythm interventions weren’t excluded. Electroanatomical mapping was created using 2 different high-density mapping system. Substrate and activation map and radio-frequency (RF) ablation (25-50W, Ablation Index target 400) were realized. Cartographies were analysed to evaluate AT re-entry circuit, critical isthmus (CI) location and characterization, atrial vulnerability. Procedural outcomes (AT termination, sinus rhythm (SR) restoration, anti-arrhythmic drugs (AAD) withdrawal), and peri-procedural complications were also evaluated. Results We enrolled 49 patients (median age 57 ± 15), finding a maximum of 5 AT per procedure (2 ± 1). A total of 112 AT were mapped: the majority (72%) were persistent AT, 8,2% common atrial flutter. Cycle length was 314 ± 74 msec, with proximal-distal activation of coronary sinus (78%). A multiple re-entry circuit was observed in 70% of index AT. We identified 152 critical isthmus (maximum 5 per procedure). Only 27,9% of our patients had a single CI; CTI was the most frequent one (n = 37), envolved in 33% of all AT, while BTS scars altogether were envolved in 65% AT. A complete AT circuit was mapped in the RA, the LA and both atria in respectively 49%, 11,5% and 39%AT. The distribution of CIs is shown in figure 1. Biatrial and left AT leads to superior procedure, RF and fluoroscopy duration (p &amp;lt;0,05). SR was restored in 93,4%of patients, requiring a DC shock in 4 cases. Immediate AAD withdrawal was achieved after 41%procedures. No pericardial, oesophageal, vascular or phrenic complication occurred. 4 pace-maker implantations were realized because of 3 interatrial, 2 AV block and a sinus node dysfunction. Conclusions AT occurring after a BTSa have a high prevalence of multiple re-entry circuits with multiple critical isthmus. Ablation in this context is feasible and safe but often requires a left atrial access. Mapping of both atria should be considered to identify critical isthmus and tailored ablation strategy. Abstract Figure 1. Critical Isthmus Distribution

Gastroesophageal reflux disease: prevalence and Extraesophageal manifestations among undergraduate students in South West Nigeria

BackgroundThe reflux of noxious contents of the stomach may cause oesophageal and extra-oesophageal complications either by direct contact of aspirated gastric refluxate with the upper airway or by a vago-vagal reflex. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of gastroesophageal disease (GERD) and extraesophageal manifestations among undergraduate students in a tertiary institution in Nigeria.MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study involving undergraduate students in a private University in Nigeria. Study proforma had three parts. Part A consisted of self-administered questionnaire designed to obtain students biodata. Part B consisted of standard Carlsson-Dent questionnaire. A score of 4 and above on Carlsson- Dent questionnaire was considered diagnostic of gastroesophageal reflux symptoms (GERD). Thereafter those who had GERD were further questioned and examined for extra-oesophageal symptoms of GERD.ResultsThe total number of the study participants was 647, out of which 212 (32.8%) had GERD. One hundred and forty-four (67.9%) and 86 (32.1%) females and male had GERD respectively (p = 0.13).The extraesophageal symptoms found in those with GERD were, dysphagia, coated tongue, nocturnal cough, xerostomia, lump in the throat, asthma-like symptoms, recurrent sore throat, frequent throat clearing, halithosis and dental erosion among others.ConclusionGERD is common among this study population, with a prevalence rate of 32.8%. Only age showed significant predictor for GERD. Varying extra-oesophageal manifestations were found in those with GERD.

Palliative Endoscopic Esophageal Stenting for Malignant Esophageal Tumour Complications: A Clinical Case and Single Centre Experience in Latvia

Abstract Esophageal stenting is used in patients with malignant esophageal tumours to reduce dysphagia and inanition. The objective of this study was to analyse the main reasons for esophageal stenting in Rīga East Clinical University Hospital (RECUH) and their association with dysphagia and mortality. A cross-sectional study of all patients hospitalised in RECUH who received esophageal self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) from October 2013 to December 2015 was performed. A total of 29 patients, 24 (82.8%) male and 5 (17.2%) female, with mean age 63.7 ± 11.3 years, underwent the procedure. The most common indications for stenting were tumour-related stenosis (52.9%) and fistulae (17.6%). Mean time from establishing the diagnosis of esophageal cancer to stent placement was 338.6 days. Median survival after stenting was 4.8 months. A complex case of a patient requiring placement of three palliative stents illustrates the challenges of esophageal cancer care. Esophageal stent placement is an effective palliative method for treating tumour-related symptoms but carries risks of stent complications and fistula development over time. SEMS are being successfully used in cancer patient treatment in Latvia.

Two-stage hybrid Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy as surgical strategy to reduce postoperative morbidity for high-risk patients

BackgroundIvor-Lewis esophagectomy (ILE) is the standard surgical care for esophageal cancer patients but postoperative morbidity impairs quality of life and reduces long-term oncological outcome. Two-stage ILE separating the abdominal and thoracic phase into two distinct surgical procedures has proven to enhance microcirculation of the gastric conduit and therefore most likely reduces complications. However, two-stage ILE has not been evaluated systematically in selected groups of patients scheduled for this procedure. This investigation aims to demonstrate the feasibility of two-stage ILE in high-risk patients.Patients and methodsIn this retrospective analysis of data obtained from a prospective database, a consecutive series of 275 hybrid ILE (hILE) were included. Patients were divided into two groups based on one- or two-stage hILE. Postoperative complications were assessed according to ECCG (Esophageal Complication Consensus Group) criteria and compared using the Clavien–Dindo score. Indication for two-stage esophagectomy was classified as pre- or intraoperative decision.Results34 out of 275 patients (12.7%) underwent two-stage hILE. Patients of the two-stage group were significantly older. In 21 of 34 patients (61.8%) the decision for a two-stage procedure was made prior to esophagectomy, in 13 (38.2%) patients intraoperatively after completion of the laparoscopic gastric mobilization. The most frequent preoperative reason to select the two-stage procedure was a stenosis of the coeliac trunc and superior mesenteric artery (n = 10). The predominant cause for an intraoperative change of strategy was a laparoscopically diagnosed hepatic fibrosis/cirrhosis (n = 5).Overall morbidity and major’ complications (CD > IIIa) were comparable for both groups (11.7% in both groups). The overall anastomotic leak rate was 12.4% and was non-significant lower for the two-stage procedure.ConclusionTwo-stage hILE is a feasible concept to individualize the surgical treatment of patients with well-defined clinical risk factors for postoperative morbidity. It can also be applied after completion of the abdominal phase of IL esophagectomy without compromising the patient safety.

The burden of esophageal dilatations following repair of esophageal atresia

AimTo describe the burden of esophageal dilatations in patients following esophageal atresia (EA) repair. MethodA retrospective review was performed at The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, of all neonates undergoing operative repair for EA over a 17-year period (1999–2015). Stricture was defined by radiological and/or intra-operative findings of narrowing at the esophageal anastomosis. Data recorded included EA type, perinatal details, operative approach, esophageal anastomosis outcome, dilatation requirement, and survival. Key endpoints were anastomotic leakage and tension, esophageal dilatation technique, dilatation frequency, fundoplication, and complications. ResultsDuring the study period, 287 newborn EA patients were admitted, of which 258 underwent operative repair and survived to primary discharge. Excluding 11 patients with isolated tracheoesophageal fistula, 247 patients were included in the final analysis. Intra-operative anastomotic tension was documented in 41/247 (16.6%), anastomotic leak occurred in 48/247 (19.4%), and fundoplication was performed in 37/247 (15.0%). Dilatations were performed in 149/247 (60.3%). Techniques included bougie-alone (92/149, 61.7%), combination of bougie and balloon (51/149, 34.2%), and balloon-alone (6/149, 4.0%). These patients underwent 1128 dilatations; median number of dilatations per patient was 4 (interquartile range 2–8). Long-gap EA and anastomotic tension were risk factors (p < 0.01) for multiple dilatations. Complications occurred in 13/1128 (1.2%) dilatation episodes: 11/13 esophageal perforation, 2/13 clinically significant aspiration. Perforations were rare events in both balloon (6/287, 2.1%) and bougie dilatations (4/841, 0.5%); one patient had a perforation from guidewire insertion. ConclusionsEsophageal dilatation occurred in a majority of EA patients. Long-gap EA was associated with an increased burden of esophageal dilatation. Perforations were rare events in balloon and bougie dilatations. Type of studyOriginal article – retrospective review. Level of evidenceII

Management and Outcomes of Button Batteries in the Aerodigestive Tract: A Multi-institutional Study.

To describe the clinical presentation, management, and complications associated with button battery impaction in the aerodigestive tract in children. Retrospective case series. This multi-institutional study, endorsed by the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology research consortium, is a retrospective medical record review, including all children at five tertiary-care institutions presenting with button batteries impacted in the aerodigestive tract between January 2002 and December 2014. Battery type/size, duration and location of impaction, presenting symptoms, treatment, complications, and outcomes were examined. Eighty-one patients were included (64.2% male), with ingestion witnessed in 20 (24.7%). Median age at presentation was 3 years (range, 1 week-14 years). Median time from diagnosis to removal was 2.5 hours (range, 0.4-72 hours). Locations included the esophagus (n = 48), hypopharynx (n = 1), stomach (n = 6), nasal cavity (n = 22), and ear canal (n = 4). Most common symptoms for esophageal/hypopharyngeal impactions included dysphagia (26.5%), nausea/vomiting (26.5%), drooling (24.5%), cough (18.4%), and fever (18.4%). Most common symptoms for nasal impactions included epistaxis (54.6%), rhinorrhea (40.9%), nasal pain (27.3%), and fever (22.7%). Almost all esophageal impactions were from 3-V (89.5%), 20-mm (81.8%) lithium batteries. Severe esophageal complications included stricture (28.6%), perforation (24.5%), tracheoesophageal fistula formation (8.2%), pneumothorax (4.1%), and bilateral true vocal fold paresis (4.1%). Nasal complications included necrosis (59.1%), septal perforation (27.3%), and saddle nose deformity (4.5%). Duration of impaction correlated with an increased likelihood of persistent symptoms only for nasal batteries (P = .049). Button batteries in the upper pediatric aerodigestive tract or ear canal should be considered a surgical emergency, requiring urgent removal and careful vigilance for complications. 4 Laryngoscope, 131:E298-E306, 2021.

Postoperative complications of minimally invasive esophagectomy for esophageal cancer.

Minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) has been performed increasingly more frequently for the treatment of esophageal cancer, ever since it was first described in 1992. However, the incidence of postoperative complications of MIE has not yet been well‐characterized, because (a) there are few reports of studies with a sufficient sample size, (b) a variety of minimally invasive surgical techniques are used, and (c) there are few reports in which an established system for classifying the severity of complications is examined. According to an analysis performed by the Esophageal Complications Consensus Group, the most common complications of MIE are pneumonia, arrhythmia, anastomotic leakage, conduit necrosis, chylothorax, and recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy. Therefore, we decided to focus on these complications. We selected 48 out of 1245 reports of studies (a) that included more than 50 patients each, (b) in which the esophagectomy technique used was clearly described, and (c) in which the complications were adequately described. The overall incidences of the postoperative complications of MIE for esophageal cancer were analyzed according to the MIE technique adopted, that is, McKeown MIE, Ivor Lewis MIE, robotic‐assisted McKeown MIE, robotic‐assisted Ivor Lewis MIE, or mediastinoscopic transmediastinal esophagectomy. Pneumonia, arrhythmia, anastomotic leakage, and recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy occurred at an incidence rate of about 10% each; Ivor Lewis MIE was associated with a relatively low incidence of recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy. It is important to recognize that the incidences of complications of MIE are influenced by the MIE technique adopted and the extent of lymph node dissection.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy in the prevention and management of tracheal and oesophageal anastomotic complications.

Failure of anastomotic healing is a morbid complication after airway or oesophageal surgery. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been used extensively in the management of complex wound-healing problems. We demonstrate the use of HBOT to rescue at-risk anastomoses or manage anastomotic failures in thoracic surgery. Retrospective review of 25 patients who received HBOT as part of the management of tracheal or oesophageal anastomotic problems during 2007-2018. HBOT was delivered at 2 atm with 100% oxygen in 90-min sessions. Twenty-three patients underwent airway resection and reconstruction while 2 patients underwent oesophagectomy. There were 16 (70%) laryngotracheal and 7 (30%) tracheal resections. Necrosis at the airway anastomosis was found in 13 (57%) patients, partial dehiscence in 2 (9%) patients and both in 6 (26%) patients. HBOT was prophylactic in 2 (9%) patients. Patients received a median of 9.5 HBOT sessions (interquartile range 5-19 sessions) over a median course of 8 days. The airway anastomosis healed in 20 of 23 (87%) patients. Overall, a satisfactory long-term airway outcome was achieved in 19 (83%) patients; 4 patients failed and required reoperation (2 tracheostomies and 1 T-tube). HBOT was used in 2 patients after oesophagectomy to manage focal necrosis or ischaemia at the anastomosis, with success in 1 patient. Complications from HBOT were infrequent and mild (e.g. ear discomfort). HBOT should be considered as an adjunct in the management of anastomotic problems after airway surgery. It may also play a role after oesophagectomy. Possible mechanisms of action are rapid granulation, early re-epithelialization and angiogenesis.