Laparoscopic Transhiatal Approach Research Articles

559. SURGICAL PROCEDURE AND CLINICAL OUTCOME OF TRANSMEDIASTINAL ESOPHAGECTOMY FOR ESOPHAGEAL CANCER

Abstract Background We started performing esophagectomy by a laparoscopic transhiatal approach in 2009, and 577 patients had undergone to date. Furthermore, we started performing single-port mediastinoscopic cervical approach in 2014, and developed a technique for total mediastinal lymph node dissection (390 patients). Methods The upper and middle mediastinal lymph node dissection including lymph nodes along the left recurrent laryngeal nerve, using a left cervical approach, was performed with a single-port mediastinoscopic technique. This approach with pneumomediastinum by AirSeal System improved the visibility and handling in the deep mediastinum around the aortic arch. We recently performed intraoperative monitoring of the recurrent laryngeal nerve using Nerve Integrity Monitor system. For dissection of upper and middle mediastinal lymph nodes, the left recurrent laryngeal nerve was sometimes compressed by the shaft of the sealing device or the retractor. We used continuous monitoring with the Automatic Periodic Stimulation electrode for the left recurrent laryngeal nerve, and immediately recognized dangerous procedures. Frequency of recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy was dramatically reduced to half by the introduction of Nerve Integrity Monitor system. Furthermore, to understand the anatomy of bilateral bronchial arteries, we performed 3-dimensional computed tomography angiography preoperatively, which was crucial to avoid intraoperative bleeding. Results The outcome of patients performed transmediastinal radical esophagectomy was compared with those performed the right thoracotomy by using propensity score matching. The operative time, the operative bleeding, and postoperative respiratory complications were significantly decreased by transmediastinal radical esophagectomy. Conclusion Our surgical procedure resulted in a good surgical view, safe en-bloc mediastinal lymph node dissection, and the decrease of postoperative respiratory complications. https://intconferenceservices-my.sharepoint.com/:v:/g/personal/barbarav_icsevents_com/ER9oAGbon3xJvdMGlJ2EUbIBgaq_8XDlKNA-wzVH3-7Hcg?nav=eyJyZWZlcnJhbEluZm8iOnsicmVmZXJyYWxBcHAiOiJPbmVEcml2ZUZvckJ1c2luZXNzIiwicmVmZXJyYWxBcHBQbGF0Zm9ybSI6IldlYiIsInJlZmVycmFsTW9kZSI6InZpZXciLCJyZWZlcnJhbFZpZXciOiJNeUZpbGVzTGlua0NvcHkifX0&e=KbAfDr

640. EPIPHRENIC DIVERTICULECTOMY WITH HELLER MYOTOMY AND DOR FUNDOPLICATION

Abstract The attached video demonstrates epiphrenic diverticulectomy with Heller myotomy and Dor fundoplication, in a symptomatic 62 years old female patient with regurgitation and achalasia. The video offers a unique insight into the complexities of treating this uncommon condition. In this case, a laparoscopic transhiatal approach was used. The video shows the key steps of the surgery, including challenges posed by the diverticulum's unusual location (left side of the esophagus), necessitating the careful opening of the left crura for optimal visualization and safe resection. We believe this teaching case not only sheds light on the intricacies of managing epiphrenic diverticulum but also underscores the importance of tailored approaches in addressing atypical presentations. https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/jutvx1akf32nlgf8o57bp/epiphrenic-diverticuluectomy.mp4?rlkey=nmscb8y1k84g9cnfmzohtgjvp&dl=0

Open left diaphragm method enables safe surgery with a good visual field in a laparoscopic transhiatal approach for esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma laparoscopic transhiatal reconstruction via an open left diaphragm method.

Despite being oncologically acceptable for esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma with an esophageal invasion length of 3-4cm, the transhiatal approach has not yet become a standard method given the difficulty of reconstruction in a narrow space and the risk of severe anastomotic leakage. This study aimed to clarify the safety and feasibility of the open left diaphragm method during the transhiatal approach for esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma. This retrospective study compared the clinical outcomes of patients who underwent proximal or total gastrectomy with lower esophagectomy for Siewert type II/III adenocarcinomas with esophageal invasion via the laparoscopic transhiatal approach with or without the open left diaphragm method from April 2013 to December 2021. Overall, 42 and 13 patients did and did not undergo surgery with the open left diaphragm method, respectively. The median operative time was only slightly shorter in the open left diaphragm group than in the non-open left diaphragm group (369 vs. 482min; P = 0.07). Grade ≥ II postoperative respiratory complications were significantly less common in the open left diaphragm group than in the non-open left diaphragm group (17% vs. 46%, P = 0.03). Neither group had grade ≥ IV anastomotic leakage, and two cases of anastomotic leakage requiring reoperation were drained using the left diaphragmatic release technique. Transhiatal lower esophagectomy with gastrectomy using the open left diaphragm method is safe, highlighting its advantages for Siewert type II/III esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma with an esophageal invasion length of ≤ 4cm.

395. SURGICAL PROCEDURE AND PERIOPERATIVE OUTCOME OF TRANSMEDIASTINAL ESOPHAGECTOMY FOR ESOPHAGOGASTRIC JUNCTION CANCER

Abstract Background We started performing mediastinal lymph node dissection by a laparoscopic transhiatal approach (LTHA) in 2009. To date, 548 patients had undergone our method during various esophageal surgical procedures, including esophagogastric junction cancer (EGJC). Furthermore, we started performing single-port mediastinoscopic cervical approach in 2014, and developed a simple technique for transmediastinal esophagectomy (TME) without thoracic approach (435 cases). Seventy five patients with EGJC were treated by TME. Methods Left single-port mediastinoscopic cervical approach was performed with pneumomediastinum. Mainly for advanced SCC, upper mediastinal lymph node dissection including recurrent laryngeal nerve LNs was performed with intraoperative monitoring using NIM system. Next, LTHA was performed for en bloc mediastinal lymph node dissection. The esophageal hiatus was opened, and working space was secured by Long Retractors. The posterior plane of the pericardium was extended. The posterior side of LNs was then separated. Finally, while lifting LNs like a membrane, they were resected from bilateral mediastinal pleura. Reconstruction with narrow gastric conduit was performed through substernal tract. Results Patients with EGJC performed TME were analyzed (n = 75, SCC/Adeno/Others = 37/35/3). Upper mediastinal lymph node metastasis was found in 13 cases (SCC/Adeno = 6/7), middle mediastinal lymph node metastasis was found in 10 cases (SCC/Adeno = 3/7), and all of them had advanced tumors. Their perioperative outcome was compared with those performed the right thoracotomy (n = 41). The operative time and bleeding were decreased by TME. The number of resected mediastinal lymph nodes, pR0 rate, and mediastinal recurrence in TME group were not inferior to the right thoracotomy group. In 93.3% of patients treated by TME, extubation was performed at 0 POD. Postoperative respiratory complication was decreased by TME (TME:6.7%, thoracotomy:17.1%). Conclusions This procedure, TME, resulted in a good surgical view, safe en-bloc mediastinal lymph node dissection, and the decrease of postoperative respiratory complications in patients with EGJC.

Comparison of short-term surgical outcomes between complete mesenteric resection and traditional transhiatal laparoscopic surgery for Siewert type II/III esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma.

To explore the effectiveness and safety of laparoscopic transhiatal complete mesenteric resection (CME) surgery compared with those of the traditional laparoscopic transhiatal approach in the treatment of Siewert II/III adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG). Ninety-nine patients with Siewert type II/III AEG were enrolled and divided into two groups: the laparoscopic CME transhiatal approach (CEM-TH, n = 61) group and traditional laparoscopic transhiatal (TH, n = 38) group. Intraoperative and postoperative clinical data of both groups were analyzed. The laparoscopic trasihiatal surgery was technically successful in all patients. The surgical time, intraoperative bleeding, and hospital stay were all significantly (P < 0.05) reduced in the CME-TH group compared with those in the TH group. The levels of white blood cells on postoperative day (POD) 1 and 5, postoperative CRP on POD 3 and 5, and postoperative PCT were significantly (P < 0.05) lower while lymph nodes were harvested significantly (P < 0.05) more in the CME-TH group than in the TH group. Complications were not significantly (P > 0.05) different between two groups. No death occurred within 90days. The CME theory could be safely and effectively applied laparoscopically to treat patients with Siewert II/III AEG. Mesogastrium and lower mesoesophagus can be completely resected together with the tumor, lymph nodes, adipose tissue, and blood vessels as an "intact package," leading to better short-term outcomes.

240. PERIOPERATIVE OUTCOME AND SURGICAL TECHNIQUE OF TRANSMEDIASTINAL ESOPHAGECTOMY FOR ESOPHAGOGASTRIC JUNCTION CANCER

Abstract We started performing mediastinal lymph node dissection by a laparoscopic transhiatal approach (LTHA) in 2009. To date, 463 patients had undergone our method during various esophageal surgical procedures, including esophagogastric junction cancer (EGJC). Furthermore, we started performing single-port mediastinoscopic cervical approach in 2014, and developed a simple technique for transmediastinal esophagectomy (TME) without thoracic approach (350 cases). Fifty four patients with EGJC were treated by TME. Left single-port mediastinoscopic cervical approach was performed with pneumomediastinum. Mainly for advanced SCC, upper mediastinal lymph node dissection including recurrent laryngeal nerve LNs was performed with intraoperative monitoring using NIM system. Next, LTHA was performed for en bloc mediastinal lymph node dissection. The esophageal hiatus was opened, and working space was secured by Long Retractors. The posterior plane of the pericardium was extended. The posterior side of LNs was then separated. Finally, while lifting LNs like a membrane, they were resected from bilateral mediastinal pleura. Reconstruction with narrow gastric conduit was performed through substernal tract. Patients with EGJC performed TME were analyzed (n = 54, SCC/Adeno/Others = 29/23/2). Upper mediastinal lymph node metastasis was found in 9 cases (SCC/Adeno = 5/4), middle mediastinal lymph node metastasis was found in 5 cases (SCC/Adeno = 3/2), and all of them had advanced tumors. Their perioperative outcome were compared with those performed the right thoracotomy (n = 41). The operative time and bleeding were decreased by TME. The number of resected mediastinal lymph nodes, pR0 rate, and mediastinal recurrence in the two groups were not different. In 92.6% of patients treated by TME, extubation was performed at 0 POD. Postoperative respiratory complications was decreased by TME (TME:7.4%, thoracotomy:17.1%). This procedure, TME, resulted in a good surgical view, safe en-bloc mediastinal lymph node dissection, and the decrease of postoperative respiratory complications in patients with EGJC.

Combined Endoscopic and Laparoscopic Transhiatal Approach to Esophageal Leiomyoma Enucleation

Combined Endoscopic and Laparoscopic Transhiatal Approach to Esophageal Leiomyoma Enucleation

152 SURGICAL PROCEDURE AND OUTCOME OF MEDIASTINOSCOPIC RADICAL ESOPHAGECTOMY FOR ESOPHAGOGASTRIC JUNCTION CANCER

Abstract We started performing mediastinal lymph node dissection by a laparoscopic transhiatal approach (LTHA) in 2009. To date, 371 patients had undergone our method during various esophageal surgical procedures, including esophagogastric junction cancer (EGJC). Furthermore, we started performing single-port mediastinoscopic cervical approach in 2014, and developed a simple technique for transmediastinal radical esophagectomy (TMr) without thoracic approach (258 cases). Forty patients with EGJC were also treated by TMr. Methods Left single-port mediastinoscopic cervical approach was performed with pneumomediastinum. Mainly for advanced SCC, upper mediastinal lymph node dissection including recurrent laryngeal nerve LNs was performed with intraoperative monitoring using NIM system. Next, LTHA was performed for en bloc mediastinal lymph node dissection. The esophageal hiatus was opened, and working space was secured by Long Retractors. The posterior plane of the pericardium was extended. The posterior side of LNs was then separated. Finally, while lifting LNs like a membrane, they were resected from bilateral mediastinal pleura. Reconstruction with narrow gastric conduit was performed through substernal tract. Results Patients with EGJC performed TMr were analyzed (n = 40, SCC/Adeno/Others = 21/17/2). Upper mediastinal lymph node metastasis was found in 6 cases (SCC/Adeno = 3/3), middle mediastinal lymph node metastasis was found in 2 cases (SCC/Adeno = 1/1), and all of them had advanced tumors. Their perioperative outcome were compared with those performed the right thoracotomy (n = 41). The operative time and bleeding were decreased by TMr. The number of resected mediastinal lymph nodes, pR0 rate, and mediastinal recurrence in the two groups were not different. In 95.0% of patients treated by TMr, extubation was performed at 0 POD. Postoperative respiratory complications was decreased by TMr (TMr:7.5%, thoracotomy:17.1%). Conclusion This procedure, TMr, resulted in a good surgical view, safe en-bloc mediastinal lymph node dissection, and the decrease of postoperative respiratory complications in patients with EGJC.

145 ADVANTAGES OF MINIMALLY INVASIVE TRANSMEDIASTINAL ESOPHAGECTOMY IN ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH ESOPHAGEAL CANCER

Abstract Esophagectomy for esophageal cancer (EC) is one of the most invasive surgical procedures and, especially for elderly patients, postoperative respiratory complication (PRC) is still frequent and life-threatening. We started esophagectomy by a laparoscopic transhiatal approach in 2009, and single-port mediastinoscopic cervical approach in 2014. Nowadays, we have performed total mediastinal lymph node dissection without thoracic approach. The purpose of this study was to evaluate transmediastinal esophagectomy (TME) for the prevention of PRC in elderly patients. Methods 1) Patients with EC performed TME (n = 238) were compared with those performed the right thoracotomy (n = 185). 2) Outcomes of TME for elderly patients (75 years and older, n = 48) was evaluated by comparing with non-elderly patients (n = 190). 3) Elderly patients performed subtotal esophagectomy were divided into 2 groups according to the presence (n = 12) or absence (n = 51) of PRC. The two groups were compared about clinicopathological factors, and risk factors of PRC were analyzed. Results 1) Percentage of elderly patients was higher in TME group (20.2% vs 8.1%). The operative time and bleeding were decreased by TME. The number of resected LNs and pR0 rate were not different between two groups. In TME groups, the occurrence of PRC was significantly reduced (10.1% vs 28.1%). 2) 81.3% of elderly patients were able to extubation on 0POD, and there was no significant difference in PRC between two groups. 3) Univariate analysis showed that surgical approach was significantly different between two groups. Multivariate analysis showed that thoracotomy was the strongest risk factor of PRC for elderly patients. Conclusion This study showed that our surgical procedure was less invasive during operation and resulted in a safe en-bloc mediastinal lymph node dissection. For elderly patients, TME was the effective minimally invasive approach and was able to reduce the occurrence of PRC.

Totally Laparoscopic Transhiatal Middle and Lower Mediastinal Lymphadenectomy for Esophageal Cancer.

Laparoscopic transhiatal approach to esophagectomy with mediastinal lymphadenectomy usually involves hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery. However, a totally laparoscopic approach can decrease the size of the abdominal wound and curtail the impact on respiration. We present a novel, totally laparoscopic transhiatal technique that may reduce respiratory complications following thoracoscopic esophagectomy. We performed a series of combined, thoracoscopic and laparoscopic, McKeown esophagectomies via a neck-abdominal first approach. Middle and lower mediastinal lymphadenectomy, subtracheal lymph node removal, and esophageal mobilization were performed via a totally laparoscopic transhiatal approach. Subsequently, upper mediastinal lymph nodes were dissected using a thoracoscopic approach. Finally, an esophagogastric anastomosis was constructed in the neck. For the 36 patients in this series, the median values of the total operative duration and the thoracoscopic portion were 499 minutes (range, 315 to 678 min) and 106 minutes (range, 67 to 243 min), respectively. Postoperative pneumonia occurred in 3 (8.3%) patients. Totally laparoscopic transhiatal approach is feasible for esophageal surgery with acceptable short-term outcomes.

Complete laparoscopic-transhiatal removal of duplex benign oesophageal tumour: case report and review of literature

BackgroundLeiomyoma is the most common benign oesophageal tumour. Half of all leiomyoma patients have oesophagus-associated complaints, such as dysphagia and epigastric pain, and the other 50% are asymptomatic with a diagnosis made on incidental discovery. Endoscopic ultrasonography is essential for an accurate preoperative workup and can enable guided-tissue acquisition for immunohistochemistry in certain cases. Smaller tumours are amenable to traditional and novel endoscopic removal in specialized centres, but some complex cases require surgical enucleation with a minimally invasive approach.Case presentationAn asymptomatic 60-year-old woman was accidentally diagnosed with a bifocal oesophageal mass, which was discovered by chest computed tomography. We report a rare case of a duplicated lower-third oesophageal leiomyoma, which was completely removed via the laparoscopic transhiatal approach. The patient has recovered successfully from the surgery. She has been followed up for six months with a normal oesophagram, adequate oesophageal function and no complaints observed. Pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of leiomyoma in both lesions.ConclusionsTo the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of duplex oesophageal leiomyomas removed laparoscopically. Using the minimally invasive abdominal technique, the lower oesophagus can be mobilised to the mediastinum without pleura injury and offers a good alternative to the thoracoscopic approach in patients with possible intrathoracic difficulties. At experienced centres, laparoscopic transhiatal enucleation of lower oesophageal leiomyomas and other benign tumours with a combination of intraoperative oesophagoscopy is a safe, fast and effective operation.

The technique of fourth jejunal artery-based jejunal conduit for oesophagojejunostomy after thoracolaparoscopic oesophagogastrectomy for locally advanced Siewert type II tumour.

Background:Locally advanced long Siewert type II tumor requires total gastrectomy and D2 lymphadenectomy with distal esophagectomy and mediastinal lymphadenectomy for curative resection. In this scenario, a laparoscopic transhiatal approach is not feasible, and the conventional left thoracoabdominal approach is associated with increased morbidity.Aims and Objectives:To describe a novel technique of fourth jejunal artery based jejunal conduit for thoracoscopic esophagojejunostomy after laparoscopic esophagogastrectomy.Materials and Methods:The laparoscopic total gastrectomy with distal esophagectomy specimen is extracted through the periumbilical incision. A pedicled jejunal conduit based on the fourth jejunal artery is prepared, and the jejunal conduit is placed in the mediastinum under laparoscopic guidance. Using the thoracoscopic approach in a prone position, additional esophageal clearance and subcarinal lymphadenectomy are performed. Handsewn end to side esophagojejunostomy is performed at the level of the carina.Results:Three patients with long Siewert type II underwent this procedure after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. None of the patients had conduit related complications. All three patients had abdominal lymph node involvement and two patients had mediastinal lymph node involvement.Conclusion:Pedicled jejunal conduit based on the fourth jejunal artery is safe for intrathoracic anastomosis after minimally invasive esophagogastrectomy for locally advanced Siewert type II tumor.

Advances and understanding pitfalls of laparoscopic transhiatal esophagectomy with en bloc mediastinal lymph node dissection

We began performing mediastinal lymph node dissection using the laparoscopic transhiatal approach in 2009. Following the initiation of the single-port mediastinoscopic cervical approach in 2014, we developed a technique for transmediastinal radical esophagectomy without a thoracic approach. We herein describe our surgical procedures for en bloc mediastinal lymph node dissection by the laparoscopic transhiatal approach with a focus on pitfalls. We opened the esophageal hiatus and the working space was secured using long retractors. During division of the right crus of the diaphragm, we made efforts to avoid damaging the left hepatic vein and inferior vena cava. Dissection of the posterior plane of the pericardium was extended to the cranial side, and the bilateral inferior pulmonary veins were identified. To avoid misorientation, the posterior plane was initially extended along the long axis of the esophagus. The anterior and posterior sides of the posterior mediastinal lymph nodes were then both dissected. These lymph nodes were lifted in a sheet-like form and then cut along the borderline of the left mediastinal pleura. The right side of the mediastinal lymph nodes was then dissected. To avoid damaging the arch of the azygos vein, it was identified at the dorsal side of the right main bronchus prior to lymph node dissection. This procedure decreased the total operative time, total operative bleeding, and postoperative respiratory complications without reducing the quality of lymphadenectomy. In conclusion, the procedure described herein resulted in a good surgical view and safe en bloc mediastinal lymph node dissection. A detailed understanding of mediastinal 3D anatomy and specific pitfalls is crucial for the successful use of this approach.

Trans-hiatal repair for Oesophageal and Junctional perforation: a case series

BackgroundOesophageal perforation is a life-threatening condition that requires urgent intervention. Surgical repair is recommended within 24 h of onset to minimise mortality risk, traditionally via an open thoracotomy or a laparotomy. Primary oesophageal repair via a laparoscopic trans-hiatal approach has been seldomly reported due to concerns of inadequate eradication of soilage in the mediastinum and pleural space, as well as poor access and an increased operative time in an unwell population.Case presentationWe report a case series of 3 oesophageal and junctional perforations with varying presentations, demonstrating how the laparoscopic trans-hiatal approach can be used successfully to manage oesophageal perforations.ConclusionsLaparoscopic trans-hiatal repair is an attractive option for oesophageal and junctional perforations, in haemodynamically stable surgical candidates, in the absence of gross contamination of the thoracic cavity.

Long-term oncological outcomes of laparoscopic versus open transhiatal resection for patients with Siewert type II adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction.

Insufficient information is available about the long-term outcomes of patients with Siewert type II adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG) who undergo laparoscopic transhiatal approach (LTH). Here we evaluated the oncological safety of LTH for patients with Siewert type II AEG compared with the open transhiatal approach (OTH). Subjects included 79 patients with Siewert type II AEG who underwent gastrectomy combined with lower esophagectomy from 2008 to 2018 at our institution. Overall survival (OS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), status of adjuvant chemotherapy, late-phase complications, and recurrence patterns werecompared between the OTH (n = 29) and LTH groups (n = 43). The median observation periods were 60months (6-120months) and 36months (1-88) for the OTH and LTH groups, respectively. The 5-year OS rates were significantly different: 74% (95% CI 71-77%) and 98% (95% CI 97-99) in the OTH and LTH groups (HR 0.10, 95% CI 0.01-0.83), respectively, though the OTH group included more patients with advanced disease. After stratification, according to pathological stage to adjust for selection bias, the 5-year OS and RFS rates were longer, but not significantly different among patients in the LTH group with pStage III (HR 0.42, 95% CI 0.05-3.47; HR 0.47, 95% CI 0.10-2.12, respectively). Recurrence patterns were similar in the both groups. Long-term outcomes of the LTH group were not inferior to those of the OTH group, suggesting the possibility of LTH as a treatment option for selected patients with Siewert type II AEG.

Surgical outcomes of laparoscopic transhiatal lower mediastinal lymphadenectomy for seiwert type II adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction.

155 Background: Optimal surgical approach for Siewert type II adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG-II) has not yet been determined, presumably due to complex anatomical structures and the limited number of reports regarding this aspect. The transhiatal approach is preferred in East Asia in cases with 30 mm or less esophageal invasion, and laparoscopic surgery is increasingly performed. However, the feasibility of the laparoscopic transhiatal approach for AEG-II is still unclear, and thus was investigated in this study. Methods: A total of 51 consecutive patients who underwent total/proximal gastrectomy with lower mediastinal lymphadenectomy by laparoscopic transhiatal approach between January 2008 and May 2018 were included. Patients with greater than 30 mm esophageal invasion, and those who received preoperative chemotherapy, were excluded. Results: The male/female ratio was 38:13, and the median age (range) was 69 (37-81) years. Total gastrectomy and proximal gastrectomy were performed in 10 and 41 patients, respectively. All surgeries were performed by experienced surgical teams. Median operation time and intra-operative blood loss were 300 (141-511) minutes and 21 (0-267) g, respectively. Pathological tumor depth was T2 or deeper in 28 patients (55%), and nodal status was negative in 20 patients (39%). Clavien-Dindo grade IIIa or higher complications were observed in eight patients (16%), which included two anastomotic leakages and one pancreas fistula, and the mortality rate was 0%. The 5-year overall survival rate of all patients was 97% with a median observational period of 30 months. Conclusions: Laparoscopic transhiatal approach with lower mediastinal lymphadenectomy seems to be a technically feasible procedure, provided an experienced surgical team performs the surgeries. However, oncological safety for advanced disease needs to be confirmed, considering that the proportion of advanced stage cancer included in this study was limited.

Laparoscopic Transhiatal Thoracic Duct Ligation for Chylothorax after Esophagectomy.

In esophagectomy for thoracic esophageal cancer, chylothorax may develop at a certain frequency. For chylothorax, conservative treatment is selected first, but if it is not improved, thoracic duct (TD) ligation is considered. In general, transthoracic approach is chosen to reach the TD. However, it is sometimes difficult to identify the TD due to adhesion in the thoracic cavity. Hence, we selected a laparoscopic transhiatal approach to the TD. We introduce the procedure of our laparoscopic transhiatal TD ligation technique.

Long-term Outcomes of Laparoscopic Versus Open Transhiatal Approach for the Treatment of Esophagogastric Junction Cancer.

PurposeThe laparoscopic transhiatal approach (LA) for adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEJ) is advantageous since it allows better visualization of the surgical field than the open approach (OA). We compared the surgical outcomes of the 2 approaches.Materials and MethodsWe analyzed 108 patients with AEJ who underwent transhiatal distal esophagectomy and gastrectomy with curative intent between 2003 and 2015. Surgical outcomes were reviewed using electronic medical records.ResultsThe LA and OA were performed in 37 and 71 patients, respectively. Compared to the OA, the LA was associated with significantly shorter duration of postoperative hospital stay (9 vs. 11 days, P=0.001), shorter proximal resection margins (3 vs. 7 mm, P=0.004), and extended operative times (240 vs. 191 min, P=0.001). No significant difference was observed between the LA and OA for intraoperative blood loss (100 vs. 100 mL, P=0.392) or surgical morbidity rate (grade≥II) for complications (8.1% vs. 23.9%, P=0.080). Two cases of anastomotic leakage occurred in the OA group. The number of harvested lymph nodes was not significantly different between the LA and OA groups (54 vs. 51, P=0.889). The 5-year overall and 3-year relapse-free survival rates were 81.8% and 50.7% (P=0.024) and 77.3% and 46.4% (P=0.009) for the LA and OA groups, respectively. Multivariable analyses revealed no independent factors associated with overall survival.ConclusionsThe LA is feasible and safe with short- and long-term oncologic outcomes similar to those of the OA.

PS02.002: EN-BLOC MEDIASTINAL LYMPH NODE DISSECTION USING A LAPAROSCOPIC TRANSHIATAL APPROACH FOR ESOPHAGEAL AND ESOPHAGOGASTRIC JUNCTION CANCERS

Abstract Background The procedure for mediastinal lymph node dissection using a laparoscopic transhiatal approach (LTHA) had not been established for esophageal and esophagogastric junction (EGJ) cancers because of the difficulties associated with surgery. We developed a novel and simple technique for their en-bloc dissection using LTHA. To date, 296 patients had undergone our method during various esophageal surgical procedures, including 39 cases with EGJ cancer. We describe our technique and evaluate the optimal range of mediastinal lymph node dissection for EGJ cancer. Methods The esophageal hiatus was opened and CO2 was introduced into the mediastinum. The posterior plane of the pericardium was extended, and the anterior side of the subcarinal, main bronchial, thoracic paraaortic and pulmonary ligament lymph nodes were separated. The posterior side of these lymph nodes was then separated. Finally, while lifting lymph nodes like a membrane, they were resected from bilateral mediastinal pleura, main bronchi and tracheal bifurcation. Results 1) Patients with EGJ cancers performed middle and lower mediastinal lymph node dissection by LTHA (n = 39) were compared with those performed by the right thoracotomy (n = 41). The total operative time and bleeding were significantly decreased by LTHA. The number of resected middle and lower mediastinal lymph nodes, pR0 rate, and mediastinal recurrence in the two groups were not different. In 87.2% of patients treated by LTHA, extubation was performed at 0 POD. Postoperative respiratory complications was decreased by LTHA (LTHA: 7.7%, thoracotomy: 17.0%). 2) Patients with EGJ cancers performed total mediastinal lymph node dissection by thoracotomy for the time before introducing LTHA were analyzed (n = 37). Upper and/or middle mediastinal lymph nodes metastasis was observed in 10 cases, and all of them had advanced tumors. All of 6 cases with upper mediastinal lymph nodes metastasis were squamous cell carcinoma. Even in adenocarcinoma, middle mediastinal lymph node metastasis was observed in 2 cases, suggesting the importance of mediastinal lymph node dissection for advanced EGJ cancers. Conclusion Our surgical procedure resulted in a good surgical view, safe en-bloc mediastinal lymph node dissection, and the decrease of postoperative respiratory complications. Disclosure All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.

VS02.02: LAPAROSCOPIC TRANS-HIATAL REPAIR FOR BOERHAAVE’S SYNDROME: A CASE REPORT

Abstract Description Introduction Spontaneous esophageal rupture, also known as Boerhaave's syndrome, is an uncommon and potentially life-threatening condition that requires urgent surgical management. We report a case of spontaneous esophageal rupture that was successfully treated by primary closure and drainage laparoscopically. Case report The patient was a 49 year-old man with a history of liver cirrhosis. He experienced sudden-onset epigastric pain triggered by vomiting after drinking alcohol, and transported to our hospital. On admission, a thoracic CT scanning revealed mediastinal emphysema without pleural effusion. We diagnosed BS and performed an emergency operation. We chose laparoscopic trans-hiatal approach as it was thought to be minimally invasive compared with open thoracic surgery. Five trocars were placed in a similar way of gastric cancer surgery. We identified laceration on the left wall of the lower esophagus under assistance of intra-operative upper endoscopy, and conducted drainage and repair by primary closure with continuous barbed suture. Finally, an omental pedicle flap was applied for over sutured site. The operation time was 214 minutes and the amount of blood loss was 50 cc. In the post-operative course, intra-mediastinal abscess was observed and he required antibiotic therapy. However, the patient was discharged on the 16th post-operative day without a serious complication such as anastomotic leakage. Discussion Primary esophageal repair is the gold standard in Boerhaave's syndrome and the approach is usually left thoracotomy. However, if there is no perforation into the thoracic cavity as in our case, less invasive approach should be considered such as laparoscopic trans-hiatal approach. We could observe the lower esophagus completely under a good field of view in this approach. There are several treatments, and it should always be tailored to the patient's condition. Laparoscopic trans-hiatal approach is considered to be useful for the treatment of lower esophageal wall rupture. It is difficult to conduct a comparative study of the various methods that can be used to treat spontaneous esophageal rupture in cases that require emergent surgery, as the number of cases is limited. Therefore, the further accumulation of cases is necessary. Disclosure All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.