Invasive Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy Research Articles

Thoracoscopic three-port single versus multiple intercostal for radical resection of esophageal cancer: a retrospective analysis

BackgroundThe purpose of this retrospective study was to compare the safety and feasibility of single-intercostal totally minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy (MIIE) with those of multiple-intercostal MIIE.MethodsBetween January 2016 and December 2022, clinical data were collected for 528 patients who successfully underwent totally minimally invasive esophagectomy. Among these patients, 294 underwent MIIE, with 200 undergoing the single-intercostal approach and 94 undergoing the multiple-intercostal approach. Propensity score matching (PSM) was applied to the cohort of 294 patients. Subsequently, perioperative outcomes and other pertinent clinical data were analyzed retrospectively.ResultsA total of 294 patients were subjected to PSM, and 89 groups of patient data (178 persons in total) were well balanced and included in the follow-up statistics. Compared to the multiple intercostal group, the single intercostal group had a shorter operative time (280 min vs. 310 min; p < 0.05). Moreover, there was no significant difference in the incidence of major perioperative complications (p > 0.05). The total number of lymph nodes sampled (25.30 vs. 27.55, p > 0.05) and recurrent laryngeal nerve lymph nodes sampled on the both sides (p > 0.05) did not significantly differ. The single intercostal group had lower postoperative long-term usage of morphine (0,0–60 vs. 20,20–130; p < 0.01), total temporary addition (10,0–30 vs. 20,20–40; p < 0.01) and temporary usage in the first 3 days after surgery (0,0–15 vs. 10,10–20; p < 0.01) than did the multicostal group.There were no significant differences in age, sex, tumor location or extent of lymphadenectomy or in the clinical factors between the single-intercostal group (p > 0.05).ConclusionsBoth techniques can be used for the treatment of esophageal cancer. Compared to multiple intercostal MIIE, the feasibility of which has been proven internationally, the single intercostal technique can also be applied to patients of different age groups and sexes and with different tumor locations. It can provide surgeons with an additional surgical option.Trial registrationThis study was retrospectively registered by the Ethics Committee of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, and written informed consent was exempted from ethical review. The registration number was 20,230,326. The date of registration was 2023.03.26.

810. ROBOTIC ASSISTED CISTERNA CHYLI EMBOLIZATION FOR ABDOMINAL CHYLE LEAKAGE AFTER IVOR LEWIS ESOPHAGECTOMY

Abstract Background High output chyle leakage is a challenging complication following esophagectomy, carrying substantial morbidity and even mortality. Initial conservative management with parenteral feeding is commonly advised resulting in lengthy episodes of hospitalization and prolonged chest tube placement. Here, we present a case post Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy with high-output chyle leakage where we localized the leakage site to be at the cysterna chyli and subsequently treated it operatively combining robotics, fluorescence and embolization with glue. Methods A 74-year-old male underwent robotic-assisted minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy for distal esophageal adenocarcinoma. Postoperatively, chylous fluid was drained from the chest up to 700-1300cc per day despite parenteral feeding. Lipiodol lymphangiography identified extravasation of contrast at the cysterna chyli and correct clipping of the thoracic duct. Due to failure of conservative management, on postoperative day 14, robotic-assisted exploration of the truncal region with intranodal injection of indocyanine green was performed. Results This innovative procedure revealed the leakage site medially of the coeliac trunc at the cysterna chyli. Lymphatic sealing was achieved via percutaneous endoluminal embolization using a microcatheter and Histoacryl® injections, resulting in an abrupt resolution of the leak and discharge with oral MCT diet on day 5 after reoperation. Conclusion This case demonstrated the feasibility and efficacy of an innovative multimodal technique combining the dexterity and fluorescence of robotic surgery with a laparoscopic application of an interventional radiology embolization technique. Because of the risk of venous emboli, we note that this technique should only be applied in cases of abdominal chyle leakage when the thoracic duct is interrupted. https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/sktltdc1be41jfq4dk3lt/Video-Presentation-ISDE-2024-Robotic-Embolisation-Abdominal-Chyle-leakage-Def.mp4?rlkey=1wni1dpnjg4swiajcjdfa6isn&amp;st=wx30jbi7&amp;dl=0

490. THE IMPACT OF ONE-LUNG VENTILATION ON POSTOPERATIVE COMPLICATIONS AFTER IVOR LEWIS ESOPHAGECTOMY

Abstract Background One of the most common issue after Ivor Lewis esophagectomy are pulmonary complications, affecting up to 27% of patients, leading to longer hospital stay and higher healthcare costs. Traditionally, one-lung ventilation (OLV) with a double-lumen tube, is used during the thoracic phase of esophagectomy in order to provide a good surgical view by collapsing the right lung parenchyma. However, OLV has been proven to contribute to negative respiratory outcomes after surgery. On the other hand, a recent metanalysis showed that Two Lung Ventilation (TLV) is feasible throughout the two phases of the procedure, with good clinical, surgical and oncological results. Methods A consecutive series of patients undergoing minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy (MIIL) between November 2022 and November 2023 in one high-volume center was retrospectively reviewed. Intraoperative ventilation characteristics were analyzed. Postoperative pulmonary complications were stratified according to Clavien Dindo classification and further divided into mild (&amp;lt;3a) and severe (&amp;gt;3b). Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the study sample. Data was expressed as median and interquartile range (IQR) for non-normally distributed variables and as proportions for binary variables. Categorical variables are expressed as frequencies and analyzed by chi-square (χ2) tests. P-values of &amp;lt; 0.05 defined statistical significance (two-sided). Results Of the 70 patients, 8 were excluded due to lack of data. 62 patients were further stratified into three groups considering the ratio between the durations of OLV and the thoracic phase (OLV/TP): group A less than 25% of OLV/TP, group B more than 25% but less than 75% and group C more than 75%. No difference between the three groups was found in terms of pulmonary complications (χ2=1.6248, p-value=0.4437) whilst patients with a shorter OLV/TP showed a significant reduction in the incidence of severe respiratory complications(χ2= 8.2974, p-value 0.015785, p &amp;lt; 0.05). Conclusion Taking into account the limits of the study (retrospective nature, single center study), our results show that the length of OLV may negatively affect postoperative pulmonary outcomes. These promising results justify the need to conduct a randomized controlled study that would be instrumental in reaching definitive conclusions.

205. MINIMALLY INVASIVE IVOR LEWIS ESOPHAGECTOMY WITH TOTAL MEDIASTINAL LYMPHADENECTOMY FOR THORACIC ESOPHAGEAL CANCER: SHORT- AND LONG-TERM OUTCOMES IN 139 PATIENTS

Abstract Background The McKeown approach is a standard surgery for thoracic esophageal cancer in Japan, as lymph node dissection of upper mediastinum and neck is mandatory. The thoracoscopic approach allows access to the lymph node chain along the laryngeal nerves from the chest and led us to introduce minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy (MIILE) with radical lymphadenectomy for middle and lower esophageal cancer. Although circular-stapled anastomosis is popular in MIILE, the frequency of anastomotic complications has been reported to be high. We introduced MIILE with linear-stapled anastomosis in 2010. Methods To evaluate the short- and long-term outcomes of MIILE with radial lymphadenectomy and linear stapled anastomosis, we performed a retrospective cohort study of 139 consecutive patients. The endpoints included overall complications, anastomotic leak rate, nutritional status at 12 months after MIILE, and 5-year overall survival, and disease-free survival. Surgical Procedure After laparoscopic gastric tube construction, thoracoscopic or robotic esophagectomy with total mediastinal lymphadenectomy was done in the prone position. ICG angiography was used to assess gastric tube viability and sacrifice the ischemic portion in recent cases. Esophago-gastric anastomosis was performed using a linear stapler. The opening was closed with interrupted sutures and covered with the omentum to secure the anastomosis. Results There was 122 male and 17 female patients with median age of 69 years. Preoperative diagnosis was stage I/II/III/IV in 44/46/37/12 patients. Pathology results were SCC in 108 cases. Tumor location was middle/lower/EGJ in 58/64/17 patients. Preoperative chemotherapy or CRT was administered in 77 patients. Median thoracic surgery time was 297 minutes and blood loss was 53 mL. Median hospital stay was 17 days. The short-term complication rate of grade IIIa or higher was 8.7%. Anastomotic leak occurred in 8 patients (5.8%), three of whom required intervention. No leakage occurred after introduction of intraoperative ICG angiography. 90-day mortality was 0.7%. With a median follow-up of 41 months, 5-year overall survival rate was 68.3% and disease-free survival rates was 56.7%. For the 65 SCC patients with clinical stage II/III disease, 5-year OS rate was 58.7%. During follow-up period, 2 patients (1.4%) required balloon dilatation due to anastomotic stenosis. At 12 months after MIILE, the mean weight loss was 11.6% and the mean albumin level was 3.9. Discussion Compared to benchmark complication rates reported by the international Esophagectomy Complication Consensus Group (ECCG), the overall complication rate (47% vs. 59%) was not significantly lower, but the anastomotic leak rate was significantly lower (5.8 vs. 11.4%). Overall survival, disease-free survival, and nutritional outcomes were similar to those reported in Japanese clinical trials. Conclusions MIILE with linear-stapled anastomosis is a safe procedure with a low rate of serious complications. Survival and nutritional outcomes were excellent. It may be recommended as a standard procedure for lower and middle esophageal cancer. https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/z6zyllnmie9qh3zhz2wd5/Okabe_ISDE.wmv?rlkey=4mig28fv5z2vhaui31tbk0mr9&amp;dl=0

403. ROBOTIC-ASSISTED IVOR LEWIS ESOPHAGECTOMY COMPARED TO CONVENTIONAL MINIMALLY INVASIVE ESOPHAGECTOMY: RESULTS FROM SEVEN HIGH VOLUME ITALIAN CENTERS

Abstract Background Over the past decade, minimally invasive esophagectomy has gained increasing attention, supported by numerous trials and retrospective series highlighting its advantages over the traditional open approach. In addition to the conventional minimally invasive surgery (CMIE), robotic assisted minimally invasive esophagectomy (RAMIE) has gained global popularity, due to its advantages in terms of 3D visualization and instrument stability. Methods This is a collaborative study involving seven high-volume Italian centers affiliated with the Italian Society for the Study of Esophageal Diseases (SISME). Patients who underwent Ivor Lewis esophagectomy for esophageal cancer between January 2015 and July 2022 were identified from seven institutional databases and divided in two groups according to the thoracic approach: CMIE versus RAMIE. Results We identified 316 patients in CMIE and 123 in RAMIE group. Operative time was significantly longer for RAMIE procedures (p&amp;lt;0.001). A borderline significant reduction in overall complication rate was observed (48% vs 59% in CMIE group, p=0.045), however there were no differences in severe (p=0.3) and pulmonary (p=0.13) complications rate. 90-day mortality (CMIE 3.2% vs RAMIE 0.8%, p=0.15) and readmission rate (CMIE 9.5% vs RAMIE 7.3%, p=0.47) were comparable. R0 rate was 94.9% in CMIE vs 92.7% in RAMIE (p=0.4). The most performed anastomosis was circular stapled anastomosis. Anastomotic leak rate was 13.9% for CMIE and 12.2% for RAMIE (p=0.6). Conclusion Minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy has reached adequate surgical and oncological results with both conventional and robotic technique. Nowadays there is no clear superiority of one anastomotic technique.

783. ROBOTIC ASSISTED CISTERNA CHYLI EMBOLIZATION FOR ABDOMINAL CHYLE LEAKAGE AFTER IVOR LEWIS ESOPHAGECTOMY

Abstract Background High output chyle leakage is a challenging complication following esophagectomy, carrying substantial morbidity and even mortality. Initial conservative management with parenteral feeding is commonly advised resulting in lengthy episodes of hospitalization and prolonged chest tube placement. Here, we present a case post Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy with high-output chyle leakage where we localized the leakage site to be at the cysterna chyli and subsequently treated it operatively combining robotics, fluorescence and embolization with glue. Methods A 74-year-old male underwent robotic-assisted minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy for distal esophageal adenocarcinoma. Postoperatively, chylous fluid was drained from the chest up to 700-1300cc per day despite parenteral feeding. Lipiodol lymphangiography identified extravasation of contrast at the cysterna chyli and correct clipping of the thoracic duct. Due to failure of conservative management, on postoperative day 14, robotic-assisted exploration of the truncal region with intranodal injection of indocyanine green was performed. Results This innovative procedure revealed the leakage site medially of the coeliac trunc at the cysterna chyli. Lymphatic sealing was achieved via percutaneous endoluminal embolization using a microcatheter and Histoacryl® injections, resulting in an abrupt resolution of the leak and discharge with oral MCT diet on day 5 after reoperation. Conclusion This case demonstrated the feasibility and efficacy of an innovative multimodal technique combining the dexterity and fluorescence of robotic surgery with a laparoscopic application of an interventional radiology embolization technique. Because of the risk of venous emboli, we note that this technique should only be applied in cases of abdominal chyle leakage when the thoracic duct is interrupted. https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/sktltdc1be41jfq4dk3lt/Video-Presentation-ISDE-2024-Robotic-Embolisation-Abdominal-Chyle-leakage-Def.mp4?rlkey=1wni1dpnjg4swiajcjdfa6isn&amp;st=wx30jbi7&amp;dl=0

507. LONG BARRETT´S ESOPHAGUS IN MONOZYGOTIC TWINS WITH ADENOCARCINOMA DEVELOPMENT

Abstract Background Familial aggregation of Barrett's esophagus (BE) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EA) suggests a genetic pattern in fewer than 10% of patients with the former diseases. In 1983, BE was described in identical twins, underlining the hereditary influence on the development of mucosal dysplasia in some patients with this epithelial alteration. At present, some studies have attempted to identify chromosomal alterations among patients with familial aggregation of BE or EA, but there is not a clear pattern. Methods Description of the case report of a male patient who underwent esophagectomy due to EA on a long BE, who had a monozygotic twin without gastroesophageal reflux symptoms and no upper GI endoscopies before. Results A 53-year-old man was diagnosed with EA and a long BE (8 cm length) in 2017. He underwent CROSS neoadjuvant treatment and minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy. The pathological report indicated a GI T3N1M0 adenocarcinoma. Unfortunately, the patient developed lung metastases and passed away in 2019. Before that, the patient recalled that he had an identical twin brother with no gastroesophageal reflux symptoms, but we decided to scope him in 2017. The gastroscopy report revealed a 2 cm hiatal hernia with a long BE (C4M6 Prague Classification) but with no dysplasia. Nowadays, the twin patient is under close follow-up with proton pump inhibitors (PPI) and has not developed dysplasia. Conclusion Monozygotic twins provide a perfect model to study the possible influence of genetic predisposition to develop BE and EA. The development of EA in a patient guided us to diagnose and treat a long BE in his asymptomatic identical twin. More studies should be done to find the possible genetic alterations linked to familial aggregation of BE and EA.

475. MINIMALLY INVASIVE IVOR -LEWIS ESOPHAGECTOMY - ANALYSIS OF PERIOPERATIVE ONCOLOGICAL AND SHORT TERM OUTCOMES

Abstract Background Trans thoracic Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy is the widely adopted procedure for gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma. Minimally invasive esophagectomy has been shown to be superior in comparison to the traditional open approach in terms of pulmonary complications and lymph node yield. We present our experience of minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy in this review. Methods A retrospective review of the patients who underwent minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy at a single center between September 2009 and April 2023 was performed. The perioperative and short term outcomes were analyzed. Results A total of 195 patients [147 males (75.38%)] underwent minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy during the study period. The median (range) age was 62 (48-77) years. The median operative time was 435 (310-530) minutes. The median estimated blood loss was 125 (80-250) ml. R0 resection was achieved in all the patients. The median lymph node yield, ICU stay and overall hospital stay were 22 (12-30), 3.5 (2-12) days and 10 (7-33) days respectively. Pulmonary complications were the most common seen in 24 (12.31%) patients. Anastomotic leak was noted in 5 (2.56%), chyle leak in 2 (1.02%), recurrent laryngeal nerve paresis in 12 (6.15%) patients. Anastomotic stricture was noted in 22 (11.28%) patients who were managed with endoscopic dilatation. Thirty day mortality was observed in 4 (2.05%) patients. Conclusion Minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy is associated with good perioperative oncological and short term outcomes when performed in a specialist esophageal center

491. STEP BY STEP INTRATHORACIC HAND-SEWN ESOPHAGOGASTRIC ANASTOMOSIS DURING TOTALLY ROBOTIC MINIMALLY INVASIVE TWO-STAGE ESOPHAGECTOMY

Abstract Background In every esophagectomy, regardless of the approach, the creation of the anastomosis is a critical step. In minimally invasive esophagectomy, to avoid challenges of thoracoscopic suturing in the upper mediastinum most surgeons use stapling devices or even decide to do a cervical anastomosis. However, in robot-assisted minimally invasive esophagectomy, the surgeon benefits from increased dexterity that facilitates to perform a hand-sewn intrathoracic anastomosis. Methods A 67-year-old man with esophageal adenocarcinoma, staged as a T3N1 underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy, followed by a fully robotic minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy (robotic surgery during both the abdominal and thoracic phase). For the thoracic phase, the patient was placed in left sided semi-prone position. An 8 mm robotic trocar is inserted in the 6th intercostal space for the camera. Two other 8mm robotic trocars were inserted in the 4th, 8th and a 12mm 10th intercostal space. The anastomosis was constructed at the level, just above the azygos vein. Results The esophagogastric anastomosis was performed with an end-to-end construction. A barbed 3.0 suture was used to close the posterior wall by a single-layer running hand-sewn technique. The esophagostomy and the gastrostomy were performed using vascular scissors. A 36Fr Faucher was placed to expose de inner layer during the esophagostomy. A second posterior continuous full-thickness layer was performed using barbed 3.0 suture. Finally, an anterior wall full-thickness layer was performed using the same suture. To protect the anastomosis an omental wrap was applied. Conclusions Totally robotic minimally invasive esophagectomy for the treatment of esophageal cancer is on the rise. It offers all the advances of minimally invasive techniques, like reduced rates of pulmonary and cardiac complications associated with open thoracotomy and shorter length of stay. Intrathoracic esophagogastric anastomosis still remains challenging and it is considered as the most difficult step of the procedure. Robotic transthoracic manual anastomosis has appeared to overcome this difficulties. https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/km4oo66hhnb00k45e7ecq/Stepbystepmanual.mp4?rlkey=eb074cf3sj796byijqza0zoq6&amp;dl=0

The Near-infrared Visualization and Pre-emptive Ligation of the Thoracic Duct Effectively Reduce the Chyle Leak Incidence After Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy.

The aim of the present study is to assess the effectiveness of indocyanine-green (ICG)-guided lymphography (ICG-Lg) in reducing the incidence of chyle leak (CL) after esophagectomy. Chylothorax may severely impact esophageal cancer surgery, and the pre-emptive ligation of the thoracic duct (TD) is the most widespread control of this complication. Intraoperative ICG-Lg has been recently embedded in minimally invasive esophagectomy to facilitate TD detection and pre-emptive ligation. This retrospective analysis included consecutive patients who underwent minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy for cancer at a tertiary referral center between January 2018 and August 2023. Patients were routinely submitted to extended lymphadenectomy with TD ligation and removal. All patients treated after January 2021 underwent ICG-Lg for TD identification and ligation (ICG group) and compared to the previous series (no-ICG group). The primary outcome was the incidence of postoperative CL, while univariate and backward stepwise multivariate logistic regression models were performed to identify associated factors. After including 320 patients, 151 (ICG group) were submitted to ICG-Lg before the pre-emptive TD ligation. Both groups presented similar characteristics, except for neoadjuvant therapy (P=<0.001) and preoperative comorbidities (P=0.045). Intraoperative ICG-Lg significantly reduced the incidence of postoperative CL (11.8% vs 4.6%, P=0.026) and was significantly associated with shorter median length of hospital stay (13 vs 9 days, P=0.006). However, CL after ICG-Lg was more likely to require repairing reoperation (P=0.050). Intraoperative ICG-Lg demonstrated significantly lower rates of CL after total minimally invasive esophagectomy and, therefore, it should be routinely embedded in the standardized surgical technique of high-volume centers for esophageal cancer.

Postoperative outcomes after minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy based on the Esophageal Complications Consensus Group guidelines: A single surgeon’s 10-year experience at a single institution

Postoperative outcomes after minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy based on the Esophageal Complications Consensus Group guidelines: A single surgeon’s 10-year experience at a single institution

Fully robotic side-to-side stapled anastomosis provides less anastomotic leakage than conventional minimally invasive approach in Ivor Lewis esophagectomy.

This study evaluates surgical outcomes of minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy (ILE) for esophageal and esophagogastric cancer, with the comparison of the robotic approach (RA) and the conventional minimally invasive approach (CA). Selected patients who underwent minimally invasive ILE for esophageal cancer were included between January 2017 and December 2023. We retrospectively investigated the patients' background characteristics and the short-term surgical outcomes. In this period, among a total of 840 esophagectomies, 81 patients (9.6%) underwent minimally invasive ILE, consisting of 24 cases with RA and 57 with CA. The major indications for ILE were adenocarcinoma of the distal esophagus or esophagogastric junction and patients with prior head and neck cancer treatment. Among these thoracic approaches, there were no significant differences in the patients' indications and characteristics, including age, histology, tumor location, clinical TNM stage, and preoperative therapy. Compared with the CA group, no anastomotic leakage was observed in the RA group (17.5% vs. 0, p = .035). Rates of total postoperative complications and length of hospital stay also tended to be reduced in the RA group but did not reach significance. In the Ivor Lewis esophagectomy with a side-to-side linear-stapled anastomosis, the fully robotic approach has the potential to powerfully reduce anastomotic leakage compared to the conventional minimally invasive approach.

Totally minimally invasive laparoscopic robot-assisted Ivor Lewis esophagectomy: improved technique and outcomes over 200 cases.

Surgical resection of esophageal and gastroesophageal junction cancers is a very complex procedure with step learning curve. New technologies have made minimally invasive surgery possible, but challenges still remain for wide spread adoption of these techniques. This article aims to describe the outcomes and salient technical points of a totally minimally invasive, laparoscopic, robot-assisted Ivor Lewis esophagectomy (LRAMIE). Retrospective observational cohort study performed at a specialty cancer center using a prospectively maintained institutional database. Patients undergoing LRAMIE (laparoscopic abdomen, robotic chest) from 2014-2023 were included. Patients undergoing transhiatal and three-field esophagectomy were excluded. Operative and postoperative outcomes were compared over the study period to identify potential associations between outcomes over time. Two-hundred patients were identified who underwent LRAMIE. Median age was 65 years and most were male (87.5%). The open conversion rate was 1% (n=2), which occurred within the first 30 cases. Operative time and blood loss were improved at the 60-case mark (P<0.001). Anastomotic stricture rate improved after 50 cases, and leak rate improved after 80 cases. Postoperative length of stay improved at both 50 and 100 cases with a median LOS of 6 days after 100 cases. Rate of postoperative pneumonia, 30- and 90-day mortality were reduced after 100 cases, although not statistically significant for mortality due to too few events. Totally minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy at a high-volume center is a safe procedure. Operative outcomes improved significantly after 50-80 cases, followed by improvement in anastomotic results and postoperative outcomes, with corresponding excellent oncologic outcomes.

Anterior gastric wall anastomosis may lead to lower rate of delayed gastric emptying after minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy: a retrospective cohort study

IntroductionIn minimally invasive esophagectomy, a circular stapled anastomosis is common, but no evidence exists investigating the role of the specific localization of the anastomosis. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of an esophagogastrostomy on the anterior or posterior wall of the gastric conduit on the postoperative outcomes.Material and methodsAll oncologic minimally invasive Ivor Lewis procedures, performed between 2017 and 2022, were included in this study. The cohort was divided in two groups: a) intrathoracic esophagogastrostomy on the anterior gastric wall of the conduit (ANT, n = 285, 65%) and b) on the posterior gastric wall (POST, n = 154, 35%). Clinicopathological parameters and short-term outcomes were compared between both groups by retrieving data from the prospective database.ResultsOverall, 439 patients were included, baseline characteristics were similar in both groups, there was a higher proportion of squamous cell carcinoma in ANT (22.8% vs. 16.2%, P = 0.043). A higher rate of robotic-assisted procedures was observed in ANT (71.2% vs. 49.4%). Anastomotic leakage rate was similar in both groups (ANT 10.4% vs. POST 9.8%, P = 0.851). Overall complication rate and Clavien–Dindo > 3 complication rates were higher in POST compared to ANT: 53.2% vs. 40% (P = 0.008) and 36.9% vs. 25.7% (P = 0.014), respectively. The rate of delayed gastric emptying (20.1% vs. 7.4%, P < 0.001) and nosocomial pneumonia (22.1% vs. 14.8%, P = 0.05) was significantly higher in POST.ConclusionPatients undergoing minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy with an intrathoracic circular stapled anastomosis may benefit from esophagogastrostomy on the anterior wall of the gastric conduit, in terms of lower rate of delayed gastric emptying.

A Novel Method for Thoracoscopic Overlap Esophagogastric Reconstruction With Pleural Closure following Minimally Invasive Ivor-Lewis Esophagectomy for Esophagogastric Junction Cancer.

Intrathoracic esophagogastric anastomosis following minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy is a technically demanding surgical technique that can result in serious intrathoracic infections when anastomotic leakage occurs. Herein, we report a novel side-overlap esophagogastric anastomosis with pleural closure for esophagogastric junction cancer. The 3 key points of our novel technique were the following: (1) overlap esophagogastric anastomosis and closure of the entry hole were all performed using a linear stapler; (2) the pleura was closed to separate the anastomotic site from the thoracic cavity; and (3) the mediastinal drain was inserted transhiatally from the abdominal cavity. This modified anastomosis procedure was performed on 8 consecutive patients at our institution. The median overall/thoracoscopic operating time and estimated blood loss were 652.5/241.5 min and 89 mL, respectively. No mortality or serious postoperative complications occurred, and the median postoperative hospital stay was 22 days (range, 17 to 37 d). This novel thoracoscopic overlap esophagogastric reconstruction procedure with pleural closure is safe and feasible.

Long-Term Survival Associated with Direct Oral Feeding Following Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy: Results from a Randomized Controlled Trial (NUTRIENT II).

Advancements in perioperative care have improved postoperative morbidity and recovery after esophagectomy. The direct start of oral intake can also enhance short-term outcomes following minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy (MIE-IL). Subsequently, short-term outcomes may affect long-term survival. This planned sub-study of the NUTRIENT II trial, a multicenter randomized controlled trial, investigated the long-term survival of direct versus delayed oral feeding following MIE-IL. The outcomes included 3- and 5-year overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS), and the influence of complications and caloric intake on OS. After excluding cases of 90-day mortality, 145 participants were analyzed. Of these, 63 patients (43.4%) received direct oral feeding. At 3 years, OS was significantly better in the direct oral feeding group (p = 0.027), but not at 5 years (p = 0.115). Moreover, 5-year DFS was significantly better in the direct oral feeding group (p = 0.047) and a trend towards improved DFS was shown at 3 years (p = 0.079). Postoperative complications and caloric intake on day 5 did not impact OS. The results of this study show a tendency of improved 3-year OS and 5-year DFS, suggesting a potential long-term survival benefit in patients receiving direct oral feeding after esophagectomy. However, the findings should be further explored in larger future trials.

When Gastroplasty Is Not Feasible in Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy: A Single-Center Study of Intrathoracic Esophagojejunostomy.

Objective: The surgical management of tumors of the esophagogastric junction is increasingly performed by minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy. However, gastroplasty is not always feasible. The creation of a long loop is an alternative for esophageal reconstruction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the technical feasibility of using a minimally invasive thoracoscopic approach in esophagojejunostomy and to describe the contraindications for gastroplasty. Methods: All patients who had intrathoracic esophagojejunostomy in our center were identified in our database. Since 2016, the preferred approach for intrathoracic esophagojejunostomy is minimally invasive laparoscopy and thoracoscopy, using a long Roux-en-Y jejunal loop with a semimechanical triangular anastomosis technique. Results: Between January 1, 2012 and January 1, 2022, 12 patients who had esophagojejunostomy in our center were included in the study. Among them, 6 had thoracotomy and 6 had total minimally invasive thoracoscopy, representing 3.5% of surgical procedures for esophagogastric junction tumors since 2016. The mean operative time was 416.9 ± 107.47 minutes. No anastomotic leakage was observed in the minimally invasive group versus 2 leakages in the thoracotomy group. The main complication was pneumonia in 3 patients (27.3%). Finally, the main indication for intrathoracic esophagojejunostomy was tumor size with a mean of 4.72 ± 2.35 cm and the patient's surgical history. Conclusion: A total minimally invasive approach using a long jejunal loop with triangular anastomosis could be a feasible and reproducible alternative to gastroplasty to restore continuity in Ivor Lewis esophagectomy when the stomach cannot be used.

Application of overlap anastomosis in digestive tract reconstruction during minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy.

This study aims to assess the feasibility of the Overlap anastomosis technique in minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy. An accompanying video presentation elucidates our surgical procedures. A retrospective review of 46 patients diagnosed with middle and lower esophageal cancer was conducted. These patients underwent minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy with Overlap anastomosis between January 2019 and December 2020. A consistent team of surgeons performed all procedures. The initial phase involved laparoscopic stomach mobilization, intra-abdominal lymphadenectomies, and preparation of the tubular stomach. Subsequently, with the patient in the left decubitus position, thoracoscopy was used to dissect the esophagus, excise the diseased segment, and conduct mediastinal lymph node dissection. The final stage encompassed the intrathoracic gastroesophageal anastomosis using the Overlap method. All surgeries were completed without converting to an open approach, achieving complete resection. There were no operative fatalities, with an average surgery duration of 259.4min. Average statistics included intraoperative blood loss of 92.3ml, 16.2 lymph nodes dissected, and a postoperative hospital stay of 10.3days. Postoperative complications comprised three instances of hoarseness due to recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy, two cases of aspiration pneumonia, one occurrence of chylothorax, and one gastric emptying disorder. Anastomotic technique-related complications were minimal, with only one patient experiencing an anastomotic leak that resolved spontaneously and two patients facing anastomotic stenosis, which was subsequently alleviated. Our findings posit that the Overlap anastomosis method is safe and efficient for minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy, marked by a notably low rate of anastomosis-related complications. Further evaluation of its long-term implications remains necessary.

Short-term outcome of totally minimally invasive versus hybrid minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy.

For resectable esophageal cancer, the choice of total minimally invasive esophagectomy (TMIE) or hybrid minimally invasive esophagectomy (HMIE) remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the short-term clinical outcomes of TMIE and HMIE under the Ivor-Lewis procedure. The data of 145 patients diagnosed with middle or lower esophageal cancer who underwent radical Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy in the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University between January 2018 and December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. The short-term outcomes such as complications during surgery or within 30 days after surgery and postoperative pain were analyzed. All patients were divided into TMIE group (75 patients) and HMIE group (70 patients). No significant difference was observed in the baseline characteristics of the two groups. TMIE was associated with less blood loss than the HMIE group (p<0.05). A total of 54 (37.2%) patients had postoperative complications. Although the two groups were statistically similar in the incidence of major complications, patients in the HMIE group were more likely to have pneumonia compared with those in the TMIE group. The numeric rating scale for pain was significantly higher in the HMIE group (p=0.002) and more patients required an additional opioid analgesia after esophagectomy (p=0.282). In conclusion, according to perioperative outcomes, TMIE can benefit patients better than HMIE.

Factors Influencing Postoperative Complications Following Minimally Invasive Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Complications arising following minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy often result from inadequate enteral nutrition, highlighting the need for proactive measures to prevent such issues. One approach involves identifying high-risk cases prone to complications and implementing percutaneous endoscopic jejunostomy (PEJ) tube placement during esophageal resection to ensure timely enteral nutrition. In this single-center, retrospective cohort study, we examined patients who underwent minimally invasive esophagectomy for esophageal cancer at a high-volume center. The dataset encompassed demographic information, comorbidities, laboratory parameters, and intraoperative details. Our center utilized the EndoVac system pre-emptively to safeguard the anastomosis from harmful secretions and to enhance local oxygen partial pressure. All patients received pre-emptive EndoVac therapy and underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy in the early postoperative days. The need for multiple postoperative EndoVac cycles indicated complications, including anastomotic insufficiency and subsequent requirement for a PEJ. The primary objectives were identifying predictive factors for anastomotic insufficiency and the need for multi-cycle EndoVac therapy, quantifying their effects, and assessing the likelihood of postoperative complications. 149 patients who underwent minimally invasive or hybrid Ivor Lewis esophagectomy were analyzed and 21 perioperative and demographic features were evaluated. Postoperative complications were associated with the body mass index (BMI) category, the use of blood pressure medication, and surgery duration. Anastomotic insufficiency as a specific complication was correlated with BMI and the Charlson comorbidity index. The odds ratio of being in the high-risk group significantly increased with higher BMI (OR = 1.074, p = 0.048) and longer surgery duration (OR = 1.005, p = 0.004). Based on our findings, high BMI and longer surgery duration are potential risk factors for postoperative complications following minimally invasive esophagectomy. Identifying such factors can aid in pre-emptively addressing nutritional challenges and reducing the incidence of complications in high-risk patients.