Intrathoracic Gastric Emptying of Solid Food After Esophagectomy for Esophageal Cancer

Comprehensive review of therapeutic procedures for delayed gastric conduit emptying after esophagectomy

BACKGROUND

Delayed gastric conduit emptying (DGCE) is a common functional complication after esophagectomy that significantly impairs the quality of life. Despite its clinical burden, standardized management protocols are lacking, and treatment approaches often rely on individual surgeon preference. This review aimed to evaluate the evidence on procedural interventions for established late DGCE to inform clinical decision-making.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted across 5 databases, identifying 26 studies on DGCE interventions. Studies were assessed for quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, emphasizing the inclusion criteria that focused on procedural efficacy and outcome reporting.

RESULTS

A total of 26 studies encompassing diverse treatment modalities were included. Endoscopic approaches, such as botulinum toxin injection and balloon dilatation, have emerged as preferred first-line interventions, with success rates ranging from 50.0% to 100.0%. A hybrid approach combining both modalities demonstrated enhanced efficacy and lower recurrence, with success rates reaching 100.0%. Gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy showed promise for treatment-resistant DGCE, with experienced centers reporting success in 77.2% of refractory cases. Surgical options for gastric conduit revision were reserved for cases of DGCE with structural abnormalities, although the surgical options were associated with higher risks and complications. Significant heterogeneity in outcome definitions and reporting limited the comparability between studies.

CONCLUSION

This comprehensive evaluation provides valuable insights to assist clinicians in navigating current management strategies for DGCE. High-quality comparative studies are essential to refine treatment protocols and improve long-term patient outcomes.

Minimally invasive resection is associated with decreased occurrence of early delayed gastric conduit emptying after Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy

Early delayed gastric conduit emptying (DGCE) is a frequent complication after Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy (ILE). Despite its relevance, few studies are published using the international consensus criteria. Therefore, we aimed to assess predictors and clinical consequences of DGCE in patients after ILE. This analysis represents a retrospective, single-center cohort study of patients who underwent ILE (2016-2021). DGCE was assessed by the international consensus criteria. Univariable and a multivariable penalized LASSO logistic regression model was applied to identify predictors of DGCE, whereas postoperative outcomes were assessed by group comparisons. The incidence of early DGCE was 15.6% (46/294 included patients). Of all tested preoperatively known and treatment related factors, only minimally invasive surgery was associated with lower odds for the occurrence of DGCE (OR 0.33, 95%CI:0.12-0.77, P = 0.017) when compared to open surgery. When DGCE occurred, the impact on major postoperative morbidity was limited (DGCE 39.1% vs. non-DGCE 33.1%, P = 0.425), especially there were no differences in starting adjuvant treatment (DGCE 50% vs. non-DGCE 46%; P = 0.615) or overall survival (Log-Rank P = 0.995). The results of this study suggest that the impact of DGCE might have been overestimated in the past. The only factor found to be significantly associated with decreased DGCE was minimally invasive surgery. Therefore, individual patient selection for preventive interventions is difficult and routine preventive interventions only seem justified when they can be performed with low adverse outcomes and at low cost. Higher evidence from randomized controlled trials is needed to assess the optimal strategy to prevent and treat DGCE.

Outcomes of Intraoperative Pyloric Drainage on Delayed Gastric Emptying Following Esophagectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Intraoperative pyloric drainage in esophagectomy may reduce delayed gastric emptying (DGE) but is associated with risk of biliary reflux and other complications. Existing evidence is heterogenous. Hence, this meta-analysis aims to compare outcomes of intraoperative pyloric drainage versus no intervention in patients undergoing esophagectomy.

METHODS

PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane were searched from inception up to July 2022. Exclusion criteria were lack of objective evidence (e.g., symptoms of nausea or vomiting) of DGE. The primary outcome was incidence of DGE. Secondary outcomes were incidence of pulmonary complications, bile reflux, anastomotic leak, operative time, and mortality.

RESULTS

There were nine studies including 1164 patients (pyloric drainage n = 656, no intervention n = 508). Intraoperative pyloric drainage included pyloroplasty (n = 166 (25.3%)), pyloromyotomy (n = 214 (32.6%)), botulinum toxin injection (n = 168 (25.6%)), and pyloric dilatation (n = 108 (16.5%)). Pyloric drainage is associated with reduced DGE (odds ratio (OR): 0.54, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.39-0.74, I² = 50%). There was no significant difference in incidence of pulmonary complications (OR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.51-1.08; I² = 0%), biliary reflux (OR: 1.43, 95% CI: 0.80-2.54, I² = 0%), anastomotic leak (OR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.48-1.29; I² = 0%), operative time (MD: + 22.16 min, 95% CI: - 13.27-57.59 min; I² = 76%), and mortality (OR: 1.13, 95% CI: 0.48-2.64, I² = 0%) between the pyloric drainage and no intervention groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Pyloric drainage in esophagectomy reduces DGE but has similar post-operative outcomes. Further prospective studies should be carried out to compare various pyloric drainage techniques and its use in esophagectomy, especially minimally-invasive esophagectomy.

Are intra-operative gastric drainage procedures necessary in esophagectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Surgical pyloroplasty or pyloromyotomy are often performed during esophagectomy with a view of improving gastric conduit drainage. However, the clinical importance of this is not clear, and some centers opt to omit this step. The aim of this meta-analysis is to compare the rates of pulmonary complications, anastomotic leak, mortality, delayed gastric emptying, and the need for further pyloric intervention, in patients undergoing esophagectomy with and without a drainage procedure.

METHODS

A database search of Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library was performed to identify randomized control trials and cohort studies published between 2000 and 2020 which compared outcomes of esophagectomy with and without drainage procedures. A random-effects meta-analysis model was used to compare the rates of pulmonary complications, anastomotic leak, mortality, delayed gastric emptying, and the need for further pyloric intervention.

RESULTS

Three randomized and 12 non-randomized publications were identified, comprising a total of 2339 patients. No significant differences were found between the two groups with regard to pulmonary complications (RR 1.02 [95% CI, 0.78-1.33], p = 0.91), anastomotic leak (RR 1.14 [95% CI, 0.80-1.62], p = 0.48), mortality (RR 0.53 [95% CI, 0.23-1.26], p = 0.15), delayed gastric emptying (RR 0.98 [95% CI, 0.59-1.62], p = 0.93), and the need for further pyloric intervention (RR 1.99 [95% CI, 0.56-7.08], p = 0.29).

CONCLUSION

Where post-operative pyloric treatment is available on demand, surgical pyloric drainage procedures may not have any significant clinical impact on patient outcomes for patients undergoing esophagectomy, though further good-quality randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm this.

Assessment of pyloric sphincter physiology after Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy using an endoluminal functional lumen imaging probe

Objective of the study

The most common functional complication after Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy is the delayed emptying of the gastric conduit (DGCE) for which several diagnostic tools are available, e.g. chest X-ray, upper esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and water-soluble contrast radiogram. However, none of these diagnostic tools evaluate the pylorus itself. Our study demonstrates the successful measurement of pyloric distensibility in patients with DGCE after esophagectomy and in those without it.

Methods and procedures

Between May 2021 and October 2021, we performed a retrospective single-centre study of all patients who had an oncological Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy and underwent our post-surgery follow-up programme with surveillance endoscopies and computed tomography scans. EndoFlip™ was used to perform measurements of the pylorus under endoscopic control, and distensibility was measured at 40 ml, 45 ml and 50 ml balloon filling.

Results

We included 70 patients, and EndoFlip™ measurement was feasible in all patients. Successful application of EndoFlip™ was achieved in all interventions (n = 70, 100%). 51 patients showed a normal postoperative course, whereas 19 patients suffered from DGCE. Distensibility proved to be smaller in patients with symptoms of DGCE compared to asymptomatic patients. For 40 ml, 45 ml and 50 ml, the mean distensibility was 6.4 vs 10.1, 5.7 vs 7.9 and 4.5 vs 6.3 mm2/mmHg. The differences were significant for all three balloon fillings. No severe EndoFlip™ treatment-related adverse events occurred.

Conclusion

Measurement with EndoFlip™ is a safe and technically feasible endoscopic option for measuring the distensibility of the pylorus. Our study shows that the distensibility in asymptomatic patients after esophagectomy is significantly higher than that in patients suffering from DGCE. However, more studies need to be conducted to demonstrate the general use of EndoFlip™ measurement of the pylorus after esophagectomy.

Efficacy and safety of long-term transcutaneous electroacupuncture versus sham transcutaneous electroacupuncture for delayed gastric emptying after distal gastrectomy: study protocol for a randomized, patient-assessor blinded, controlled trial

Background

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) after distal gastrectomy impacts patients’ nutritional status and quality of life. The current treatments of DGE seem unsatisfactory or need invasive interventions. It is unknown whether transcutaneous electroacupuncture (TEA) is effective in treating DGE.

Methods

A total of 90 eligible participants who underwent distal gastrectomy will be randomly allocated to either the TEA group (n = 60) or the sham transcutaneous electroacupuncture (sham-TEA) group (n = 30). Each participant will receive TEA on the bilateral acupoints of Zusanli (ST36) and Neiguan (PC6) for 4 weeks. The primary outcomes will be the residual rates of radioactivity in the stomach by gastric scintigraphy and total response rates. The secondary outcomes will be endoscopic features, autonomic function, nutritional and psychological status, serum examination, and quality of life (QoL). The adverse events will also be reported. The patients will be followed up 1 year after the treatment.

Discussion

The findings of this randomized trial will provide high-quality evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of long-term TEA for treating DGE after distal gastrectomy.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2000033965. Registered on 20 June 2020

There is no correlation between a delayed gastric conduit emptying and the occurrence of an anastomotic leakage after Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy

INTRODUCTION

Esophagectomy is the gold standard in the surgical therapy of esophageal cancer. It is either performed thoracoabdominal with a intrathoracic anastomosis or in proximal cancers with a three-incision esophagectomy and cervical reconstruction. Delayed gastric conduit emptying (DGCE) is the most common functional postoperative disorder after Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy (IL). Pneumonia is significantly more often in patients with DGCE. It remains unclear if DGCE anastomotic leakage (AL) is associated. Aim of our study is to analyze, if AL is more likely to happen in patients with a DGCE.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

816 patients were included. All patients have had an IL due to esophageal/esophagogastric-junction cancer between 2013 and 2018 in our center. Intrathoracic esophagogastric end-to-side anastomosis was performed with a circular stapling device. The collective has been divided in two groups depending on the occurrence of DGCE. The diagnosis DGCE was determined by clinical and radiologic criteria in accordance with current international expert consensus.

RESULTS

27.7% of all patients suffered from DGCE postoperatively. Female patients had a significantly higher chance to suffer from DGCE than male patients (34.4% vs. 26.2% vs., p = 0.040). Pneumonia was more common in patients with DGCE (13.7% vs. 8.5%, p = 0.025), furthermore hospitalization was longer in DGCE patients (median 17 days vs. 14d, p < 0.001). There was no difference in the rate of type II anastomotic leakage, (5.8% in both groups DGCE). All patients with ECCG type II AL (n = 47; 5.8%) were treated successfully by endoluminal/endoscopic therapy. The subgroup analysis showed that ASA ≥ III (7.6% vs. 4.4%, p = 0.05) and the histology squamous cell carcinoma (9.8% vs. 4.7%, p = 0.01) were independent risk factors for the occurrence of an AL.

CONCLUSION

Our study confirms that DGCE after IL is a common finding in a standardized collective of patients in a high-volume center. This functional disorder is associated with a higher rate of pneumonia and a prolonged hospital stay. Still, there is no association between DGCE and the occurrence of an AL after esophagectomy. The hypothesis, that an DGCE results in a higher pressure on the anastomosis and therefore to an AL in consequence, can be refuted. DGCE is not a pathogenetic factor for an AL.

Silver(i)-catalyzed dehydrogenative cross-coupling of 2-aroylbenzofurans with phosphites

The silver(i)-catalyzed dehydrogenative cross-coupling reaction of 2-aroylbenzofurans with phosphites to afford 2-aroyl-3-phosphonylbenzofurans is reported.

Functional syndromes and symptom-orientated aftercare after esophagectomy

BACKGROUND

Surgery is the cornerstone of esophageal cancer treatment but remains burdened with significant postoperative changes of gastrointestinal function and quality of life.

PURPOSE

The aim of this narrative review is to assess and summarize the current knowledge on postoperative functional syndromes and quality of life after esophagectomy for cancer, and to provide orientation for the reader in the challenging field of functional aftercare.

CONCLUSIONS

Post-esophagectomy syndromes include various conditions such as dysphagia, reflux, delayed gastric emptying, dumping syndrome, weight loss, and chronic diarrhea. Clinical pictures and individual expressions are highly variable and may be extremely distressing for those affected. Therefore, in addition to a mostly well-coordinated oncological follow-up, we strongly emphasize the need for regular monitoring of physical well-being and gastrointestinal function. The prerequisite for an effective functional aftercare covering the whole spectrum of postoperative syndromes is a comprehensive knowledge of the pathophysiological background. As functional conditions often require a complex diagnostic workup and long-term therapy, close interdisciplinary cooperation with radiologists, gastroenterologists, oncologists, and specialized nutritional counseling is imperative for successful management.

Endoscopic pyloromyotomy in minimally invasive esophagectomy: a novel approach

BACKGROUND

Pyloric drainage procedures, namely pyloromyotomy or pyloroplasty, have long been considered an integral aspect of esophagectomy. However, the requirement of pyloric drainage in the era of minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) has been brought into question. This is in part because of the technical challenges of performing the pyloric drainage laparoscopically, leading many surgical teams to explore other options or to abandon this procedure entirely. We have developed a novel, technically facile, endoscopic approach to pyloromyotomy, and sought to assess the efficacy of this new approach compared to the standard surgical pyloromyotomy.

METHODS

Patients who underwent MIE for cancer from 01/2010 to 12/2019 were identified from a prospectively maintained institutional database and were divided into two groups according to the pyloric drainage procedure: endoscopic or surgical pyloric drainage. 30-day outcomes (complications, length of stay, readmissions) and pyloric drainage-related outcomes [conduit distension/width, nasogastric tube (NGT) duration and re-insertion, gastric stasis] were compared between groups.

RESULTS

94 patients were identified of these 52 patients underwent endoscopic PM and 42 patients underwent surgical PM. The groups were similar with respect to age, gender and comorbidities. There were more Ivor-Lewis esophagectomies in the endoscopic PM group than the surgical PM group [45 (86%), 15 (36%) p < 0.001]. There was no significant difference in the rate of complications and readmissions. Gastric stasis requiring NGT re-insertion was rare in the endoscopic PM group and did not differ significantly from the surgical PM group (1.9-4.7% p = 0.58).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic pyloromyotomy using a novel approach is a safe, quick and reproducible technique with comparable results to a surgical PM in the setting of MIE.

Long-term outcomes after robotic-assisted Ivor Lewis esophagectomy

Robotic assistance has gained acceptance in thoracic procedures, including esophagectomy. There is a paucity of data regarding long-term outcomes for robotic esophagectomy. We previously reported our initial series of robot-assisted Ivor Lewis (RAIL) esophagectomy. We report long-term outcomes to assess the efficacy of the procedure. We performed a retrospective review of 112 consecutive patients who underwent a RAIL. Patient demographics, diagnosis, pathology, operative characteristics, post-operative complications, and long-term outcomes were documented. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed for all the variables. Primary endpoints were mortality and disease-free survival. Overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Of the 112 patients, 106 had a diagnosis of cancer, with adenocarcinoma the dominant histology (87.5%). Of these 106 patients, 81 (76.4%) received neo-adjuvant chemoradiation. The 30-, 60-, and 90-day mortality was 1 (0.9%), 3 (2.7%), and 4 (3.6%), respectively. There were 9 anastomotic leaks (8%) and 18 (16.1%) patients had a stricture requiring dilation. All-patient OS at 1, 3, and 5 years was 81.4%, 60.5%, and 51.0%, respectively. For cancer patients, the 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS was 81.3%, 59.2%, and 49.4%, respectively, and the DFS was 75.3%, 42.3%, and 44.0%. We have shown that long-term outcomes after RAIL esophagectomy are similar to other non-robotic esophagectomies. Given the potential advantages of robotic assistance, our results are crucial to demonstrate that RAIL does not result in inferior outcomes.

Impact of Early Oral Feeding on Anastomotic Leakage Rate After Esophagectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Esophageal cancer occupies a vital position in fatal cancer-related disease, with esophagectomy procedures helping to improve patient survival. The timing when oral intake should be resumed after esophagectomy and whether early oral feeding (EOF) or delayed oral feeding (DOF) should be the optimal regimen are controversial.

METHODS

Databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane library) were searched. All records were screened by two authors through full-text reading. Data on the anastomotic leakage rate were extracted and synthesized in meta-analyses. Postoperative pneumonia rate and length of hospital stay were also assessed.

RESULTS

Seven studies from 49 records were included after full-text reading; 1595 patients were totally included in the analysis. No significant difference was observed between the EOF and DOF groups (odds ratio [OR] 1.68; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.70-4.03; p = 0.2495; I² = 70%). Higher anastomotic leakage rate was observed in EOF compared with DOF (OR 2.89; 95% CI 1.56-5.34; p = 0.0007; I² = 10%) in the open subgroup. No significant difference was observed in the MIE (OR 0.48; 95% CI 0.22-1.02; p = 0.0564; I² = 0%). Patients performed similarly in pneumonia (OR 1.12; 95% CI 0.57-2.21; p = 0.745; I² = 34%). In cervical subgroup, anastomosis leakage may be less in DOF (OR 2.42 95% CI 1.26-4.64; p = 0.0651; I² = 58%), while in thoracic subgroup, there is no obvious difference (OR 0.86 95% CI 0.46-1.61; p = 0.01; I² = 84.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

Anastomotic leakage related to the timing of oral feeding after open esophagectomy, which is more favorable to the DOF regimen. However, timing of oral feeding did not impair anastomotic healing in patients undergoing MIE.

Gastrointestinal side effects of upper gastrointestinal cancer surgery

In this chapter, we describe the gastrointestinal side effects of oesophagectomy, gastrectomy and pancreaticoduodenectomy for cancer, with a focus on long-term functional impairments and their management. Improvements in upper gastrointestinal cancer surgery have led to a growing group of long-term survivors. The invasive nature of these surgeries profoundly alters the upper gastrointestinal anatomy, with lasting implications for long-term function, and how these impairments may be treated. Successfully maintaining a high quality of survivorship requires multidisciplinary approach, with survivorship care plans focused on function as much as the detection of recurrence.

Delayed Gastric Emptying after Esophagectomy: Management and Prevention

The quality of life associated with eating is becoming an increasingly significant problem for patients who undergo esophagectomy as a result of the improved survival rate after esophageal cancer surgery. Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is a common complication after esophagectomy. Although several strategies have been proposed for the management and prevention of DGE, no clear consensus exists. The purpose of this review is to present a brief overview of DGE and to help clinicians choose the most appropriate treatment through an analysis of DGE by cause. Furthermore, we would like to suggest some tips to prevent DGE based on our experience.

Endoscopic Botulinum toxin as a treatment for delayed gastric emptying following oesophagogastrectomy

INTRODUCTION

The incidence of delayed gastric emptying (DGE) following oesophagogastrectomy with gastric conduit reconstruction is reported to be between 1.7% and 50%. This variation is due to differing practices of intraoperative pylorus drainage procedures, which increase the risk of postoperative biliary reflux and dumping syndrome, resulting in significant morbidity. The aim of our study was to establish rates of DGE in people undergoing oesophagogastrectomy without routine intraoperative drainage procedures, and to evaluate outcomes of postoperative endoscopically administered Botulinum toxin into the pylorus (EBP) for people with DGE resistant to systemic pharmacological treatment.

METHODS

All patients undergoing oesophagogastrectomy between 1 January 2016 and 31 March 2018 at our unit were included. No intraoperative pyloric drainage procedures were performed, and DGE resistant to systemic pharmacotherapy was managed with EBP.

RESULTS

Ninety-seven patients were included. Postoperatively, 29 patients (30%) were diagnosed with DGE resistant to pharmacotherapy. Of these, 16 (16.5%) were diagnosed within 30 days of surgery. The median pre-procedure nasogastric tube aspirate was 780ml; following EBP, this fell to 125ml (p<0.001). Median delay from surgery to EBP in this cohort was 13 days (IQR 7-16 days). Six patients required a second course of EBP, with 100% successful resolution of DGE before discharge. There were no procedural complications.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the largest series of patients without routine intraoperative drainage procedures. Only 30% of patients developed DGE resistant to pharmacotherapy, which was managed safely with EBP in the postoperative period, thus minimising the risk of biliary reflux in people who would otherwise be at risk following prophylactic pylorus drainage procedures.

Diagnostic criteria and symptom grading for delayed gastric conduit emptying after esophagectomy for cancer: international expert consensus based on a modified Delphi process

Delayed gastric conduit emptying (DGCE) after esophagectomy for cancer is associated with adverse outcomes and troubling symptoms. Widely accepted diagnostic criteria and a symptom grading tool for DGCE are missing. This hampers the interpretation and comparison of studies. A modified Delphi process, using repeated web-based questionnaires, combined with live interim group discussions was conducted by 33 experts within the field, from Europe, North America, and Asia. DGCE was divided into early DGCE if present within 14 days of surgery and late if present later than 14 days after surgery. The final criteria for early DGCE, accepted by 25 of 27 (93%) experts, were as follows: >500 mL diurnal nasogastric tube output measured on the morning of postoperative day 5 or later or >100% increased gastric tube width on frontal chest x-ray projection together with the presence of an air-fluid level. The final criteria for late DGCE accepted by 89% of the experts were as follows: the patient should have 'quite a bit' or 'very much' of at least two of the following symptoms; early satiety/fullness, vomiting, nausea, regurgitation or inability to meet caloric need by oral intake and delayed contrast passage on upper gastrointestinal water-soluble contrast radiogram or on timed barium swallow. A symptom grading tool for late DGCE was constructed grading each symptom as: 'not at all', 'a little', 'quite a bit', or 'very much', generating 0, 1, 2, or 3 points, respectively. For the five symptoms retained in the diagnostic criteria for late DGCE, the minimum score would be 0, and the maximum score would be 15. The final symptom grading tool for late DGCE was accepted by 27 of 31 (87%) experts. For the first time, diagnostic criteria for early and late DGCE and a symptom grading tool for late DGCE are available, based on an international expert consensus process.

Per-Oral Pyloromyotomy (POP) for Medically Refractory Post-Surgical Gastroparesis

BACKGROUND

Post-surgical gastroparesis (psGP) is putatively related to vagal denervation from either therapeutic transection or inadvertent injury. Here, we present a series of patients undergoing endoscopic per-oral pyloromyotomy (POP) as a treatment for medically refractory psGP.

METHODS

Patients identified from a prospectively maintained database of patients undergoing POP procedures at our institution from January 2016 to January 2018 were included. Surgical history, symptom scores, and gastric emptying studies before and 3 months after POP were additionally recorded.

RESULTS

During the study period, 177 POP procedures were performed, of which 38 (21.5%) were for psGP. The study cohort was 84.2% female with a mean body mass index of 27.6 kg/m² and mean age of 55.2 years. Common comorbidities included hypertension (34.2%), depression (31.6%), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (28.9%). Hiatal/paraesophageal hernia repair (39.5%) or fundoplication (36.8%) preceded psGP diagnosis most often. The mean operative time was 30 ± 20 min. There were no intraoperative complications. Mean postoperative length of stay was 1.2 days. There were two readmissions within 30 days, one for melena and one for dehydration. The mean improvement in total Gastroparesis Symptom Index Score was 1.29 (p = 0.0002). The mean 4-h gastric retention improved from a pre-POP mean of 46.4 to 17.9% post-POP. Normal gastric emptying was noted in 50% of subjects with available follow-up imaging.

CONCLUSION

POP is a safe and effective endoscopic therapy for patients with psGP. POP should be considered a reasonable first-line option for patients with medically refractory psGP and may allow stomach preservation.

Mortality and postoperative complications after different types of surgical reconstruction following pancreaticoduodenectomy-a systematic review with meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Pancreaticoduodenectomy/PD is a technically demanding pancreatic resection. Options of surgical reconstruction include (1) the child reconstruction defined as pancreatojejunostomy/PJ followed by hepaticojejunostomy/HJ and the gastrojejunostomy/GJ "the standard/s-Child," (2) the s-child reconstruction with an additional Braun enteroenterostomy "BE-Child," or (3) Isolated-Roux-En-Y-pancreaticojejunostomy "Iso-Roux-En-Y," in which the pancreas anastomosis is reconstructed in a separate loop after the GJ. Yet, the impact of these reconstruction methods on patients' outcome has not been sufficiently compared in a systematic manner.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted according to the Preferred-Reporting-Items-for-Systematic-review-and-Meta-Analysis/PRISMA-guidelines by screening Pubmed/Medline, Scopus, Cochrane Library and Web-of-Science. Articles meeting predefined criteria were extracted and meta-analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Nineteen studies were identified comparing BE-Child or Isolated-Roux-En-Y vs. s-Child. Compared to s-Child neither BE-Child (p = 0.43) nor Iso-Roux-En-Y (p = 0.94) displayed an impact on postoperative mortality, whereas BE-Child showed less postoperative complications (p = 0.02). BE-Child (p = 0.15) and Iso-Roux-En-Y (p = 0.61) did not affect postoperative pancreatic fistula/POPF in general, but BE-Child was associated with a decrease of clinically relevant POPF (p = 0.005), clinically relevant delayed gastric emptying/DGE B/C (p = 0.004), bile leaks (p = 0.01), and hospital stay (p = 0.06). BE-Child entailed also an increased operation time (p = 0.0002) with no impact on DGE A/B/C, hemorrhage, surgical site infections and pulmonary complications.

CONCLUSION

BE-Child is associated with a decreased risk for postoperative complications, particularly a decreased risk for clinically relevant DGE, POPF, and bile leaks, whereas Iso-Roux-En-Y does not seem to affect the clinical course after PD. Therefore, BE seems to be a valuable surgical method to improve patients' outcome after PD.

Patient-reported outcome domains for the esophageal CONDUIT report card: a prospective trial to establish domains

Background

Health-related quality of life (QoL) deteriorates immediately after esophagectomy. Patients may benefit from periodic assessments to detect increased morbidity on the basis of subjective self-reports. Using input from patients and health care providers, we developed a brief prototype for the esophageal conduit questionnaire (Mayo Clinic Esophageal Conduit Outcomes Noting Dysphagia/Dumping, and Unknown outcomes with Intermittent symptoms over Time after esophageal reconstruction [CONDUIT] Report Card) and previously used it in comparative research. The present study aimed to expand its content and establish health-related QoL and symptom domains of a patient-reported postesophagectomy conduit evaluation tool.

Methods

We expanded tool content by selecting items measuring patient-reported symptoms from existing questionnaires or written de novo. A multidisciplinary group of clinician content-matter experts approved the draft tool, together with a designated patient advocate. The expanded tool was administered to patients postesophagectomy from March 1 to November 30, 2016. We established domains of conduit performance for score reporting through data analysis with exploratory factor analyses. We assessed psychometric properties such as dimensionality, internal consistency, and inter-item correlations in each domain and compared content coverage with other existing measures intended for this patient population. For data that were missing less than 50% of patient responses, the missing values were imputed.

Results

Five multi-item domains were established from data of 76 patients surveyed after esophagectomy; single items were used to assess stricture and conduit emptying. For every multi-item domain, dominance of 1 factor was present. Internal consistency reliability estimates for the domains were 0.87, 0.78, 0.75, 0.80, and 0.83 and average inter-item correlations were 0.40, 0.50, 0.40, 0.33, and 0.73 for dysphagia, reflux, dumping-gastrointestinal symptoms, dumping-hypoglycemia, and pain, respectively. Some items observed to have lower inter-item correlation were reworded or flagged for removal at future validation. For reflux and dumping-related hypoglycemia, additional items were written after these analyses.

Conclusions

The CONDUIT Report Card is a novel questionnaire for assessing QoL and symptoms of patients after esophageal reconstruction. It covers major symptoms of these patients and has good content validity and psychometric properties. The tool can be used to help direct patient care, guide intervention, and compare efficacy of different treatment options.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier No. 02530983 on 8/18/2015.

Gastric Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy

Gastroparesis (GP) is a syndrome characterized by delayed gastric emptying in the absence of mechanical obstruction of the stomach or proximal small bowel. Currently available dietary and medical therapies are limited and have suboptimal efficacy. Pylorus-directed therapies have showed promising results. Gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) has been reported for the treatment of GP refractory to standard therapy with promising results. This article reviews the current applications and results of G-POEM for the treatment of refractory GP.

Gastric Outlet Obstruction After Esophagectomy: Retrospective Analysis of the Effectiveness and Safety of Postoperative Endoscopic Pyloric Dilatation

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Delayed gastric emptying after esophagectomy with gastric replacement can pose a significant postoperative problem, often leading to aspiration and pneumonia. The present study analyzes retrospectively the effectiveness of endoscopic pyloric dilatation for post-surgical gastric outlet obstruction.

METHODS

Between March 2006 and March 2010, 403 patients underwent a transthoracic en-bloc esophagectomy and reconstruction with a gastric tube and intrathoracic esophagogastrostomy. In patients with postoperative symptoms of an outlet dysfunction and the confirmation by endoscopy, pyloric dilatations were performed without preference with either 20- or 30-mm balloons.

RESULTS

A total of 89 balloon dilatations of the pylorus after esophagectomy were performed in 60 (15.6 %) patients. In 21 (35 %) patients, a second dilatation of the pylorus was performed. 55 (61.8 %) dilatations were performed with a 30-mm balloon and 34 (38.2 %) with a 20-mm balloon. The total redilatation rate for the 30-mm balloon was 20 % (n = 11) and 52.9 % (n = 18) for the 20-mm balloon (p < 0.001). All dilatations were performed without any complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Pylorus spasm contributes to delayed gastric emptying leading to postoperative complications after esophagectomy. Endoscopic pyloric dilatation after esophagectomy is a safe procedure for treatment of gastric outlet obstruction. The use of a 30-mm balloon has the same safety profile but a 2.5 lower redilatation rate compared to the 20-mm balloon. Thus, the use of 20-mm balloons has been abandoned in our clinic.

Do intraoperative pyloric interventions predict the need for postoperative endoscopic interventions after minimally invasive esophagectomy?

Intraoperative pyloric procedures are often performed during esophagectomies to reduce the rates of gastric conduit dysfunction. They include pyloroplasty (PP), pyloromyotomy (PM), and pylorus botulinum toxin type-A injections (BI). Despite these procedures, patients frequently warrant further endoscopic interventions. The aim of this study is to compare intraoperative pyloric procedures and the rates of postoperative endoscopic interventions following minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE). We identified patients who underwent MIE for esophageal carcinoma and grouped them as 'None' (no intervention), 'PP', 'PM', or 'BI' based on intraoperative pyloric procedure type. The rates of endoscopic interventions for the first six postoperative months were compared. To adjust for variability due to MIE type, the rates of >1 interventions were compared using a zero-inflated Poisson regression analysis. Significance was established at P < 0.05. There were 146 patients who underwent an MIE for esophageal cancer from 2008 to 2015; 77.4% were three-hole MIE, and 22.6% were Ivor- Lewis MIE. BI was most frequent in Ivor-Lewis patients (63.5%), while PP was most frequent (46.9%) in three-hole patients. Postoperative endoscopic interventions occurred in 38 patients (26.0%). The BI group had the highest percentage of patients requiring a postoperative intervention (n = 13, 31.7%). After adjusting for higher rates of interventions in three-hole MIE patients, the BI and None groups had the lowest rates of >1 postoperative interventions. Our data did not show superiority of any pyloric intervention in preventing endoscopic interventions. The patients who received BI to the pylorus demonstrated a trend toward a greater likelihood of having a postoperative intervention. However when adjusted for type of MIE, the BI and None groups had lower rates of subsequent multiple interventions. Further research is needed to determine if the choice of intraoperative pyloric procedure type significantly affects quality of life, morbidity, and overall prognosis in these patients.

Risk factors for delayed gastric emptying after esophagectomy

PURPOSE

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is a common functional disorder after esophagectomy with gastric tube reconstruction. Little is known about risk factors that can predict this debilitating complication.

METHODS

Patients who underwent elective esophagectomy from 2008 to 2016 in a single center were retrospectively reviewed. Diagnosis of DGE was based on clinical, radiological, and endoscopic findings. Uni- and multivariate analyses were performed to identify patient-, tumor-, and procedure-related factors that increase the risk of DGE.

RESULTS

One hundred eighty-two patients were included. Incidence of DGE was 39.0%. Overall, 27 (14.8%) needed an endoscopic intervention. Patients in the DGE group had a longer hospital stay (p < 0.01). No differences were found for the 30-day (p = 1.0) and hospital mortality (p = 1.0). On univariate analyses, a significant influence on DGE was demonstrated for pre-existing pulmonary comorbidity (p = 0.04), an anastomotic leak (p < 0.01), and postoperative pulmonary complications (pneumonia: p = 0.02, pleural empyema: p < 0.01, and adult respiratory distress syndrome: p = 0.03). Furthermore, there was a non-significant trend toward an increased risk for DGE for the following variable: female gender (p = 0.09) and longer operative time (p = 0.09). On multivariate analysis, only female gender (p = 0.03) and anastomotic leak (p = 0.01) were significantly associated with an increased risk for DGE.

CONCLUSIONS

DGE is a frequent complication following esophagectomy that can successfully be managed with conservative or endoscopic measures. DGE did not increase mortality but was associated with increased morbidity and prolonged hospitalization. We identified risk factors that increase the incidence of DGE. However, this has to be confirmed in future studies with standardized definition of DGE.

Case-control study of the efficacy of retrogastric Roux-en-Y choledochojejunostomy

The traditional, retrocolic/antegastric Roux-en-Y choledochojejunostomy is technically complicated, and the incidence of postoperative complications remains high. Here we report the outcome of 59 consecutively treated patients (study group, SG) that underwent a new choledochojejunostomy method in which the jejunal loop is passed behind the antrum pyloricum (retrogastric route). A retrospective comparison was made between this group of patients and 187 patients (control group, CG) that underwent conventional Roux-en-Y choledochojejunostomy (antegastric route). Baseline clinicopathological characteristics were similar in both groups, except for the BMI, which was significantly higher in the SG. The time spent on constructing the anastomosis, as well as overall postoperative complications, did not differ between groups. Compared with the CG, the incidence of postoperative delayed gastric emptying was decreased in the SG, and the time elapsed before the patients' first postoperative liquid food consumption was shorter. We ascribe these beneficial effects to the superiority of the modified, retropyloric choledochojejunostomy approach, and propose that this surgical technique is particularly suitable for obese patients, especially those with a short ascending bowel loop.

Risk factors for delayed gastric emptying in patients undergoing esophagectomy without pyloric drainage

BACKGROUND

The incidence of delayed gastric emptying (DGE) after esophagectomy is 10%-50%, which can interfere with postoperative recovery in the short-term and result in poor quality of life in the long term. Pyloric drainage is routinely performed to prevent DGE, but its role is highly controversial. The aim of this study was to report the rate of DGE after esophagectomy without pyloric drainage and to investigate its risk factors and the potential effect on recovery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January 2010 and January 2015, we analyzed 285 consecutive patients who received an esophagectomy without pyloric drainage. Possible correlations between the incidence of DGE and its potential risk factors were examined in univariate and multivariate analyses, respectively. The outcomes of DGE were reviewed with a follow-up of 3 mo.

RESULTS

The overall rate of DGE after esophagectomy was 18.2% (52/285). Among perioperative factors, gastric size (gastric tube versus the whole stomach) was the only significant factor affecting the incidence of DGE in the univariate analysis. The patients who received a whole stomach as an esophageal substitute were more likely to develop DGE than were patients with a gastric tube (13.2% versus 22.4%; P = 0.05). No independent risk factor for DGE was found in the multivariate analysis. The incidence of major postoperative complications, including anastomotic leak, respiratory complications, and cardiac complications, was also not significantly different between both groups, with or without DGE. Within 3 mo of follow-up, most patients could effectively manage their DGE through medication (39/52) or endoscopic pyloric dilation (12/52), with only one patient requiring surgical intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, the overall incidence of DGE is about 20% for patients undergoing esophagectomy without pyloric drainage. Compared with prior findings, this does not result in a significantly increased incidence of DGE. In patients with symptoms of DGE after esophagectomy, prokinetic agents and endoscopic balloon dilation of the pylorus can be effective, as indicated by the high success rate and lack of significant complications.

Thoracoscopic Implant of Neurostimulator for Delayed Gastric Conduit Emptying After Esophagectomy

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Gastroparesis is a clinical syndrome characterized by delayed gastric emptying in the absence of mechanical outlet obstruction. Use of the denervated stomach as an esophageal substitute is a common cause of transient gastroparesis. Gastric electrostimulation through a thoracotomy approach has previously been reported to be effective in patients with medically refractory postesophagectomy gastroparesis. We report the first thoracoscopic implant of a gastric neurostimulator.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A 57-year-old woman underwent Ivor Lewis esophagectomy for early stage (T1N0) adenocarcinoma in 2007. She progressively developed progressive dysphagia, regurgitation, and a 29-kg weight loss. The barium swallow study and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy showed a dilated intrathoracic stomach without evidence of mechanical obstruction. Erythromycin and multiple endoscopic dilatations of the pylorus were unsuccessful, and eventually, a feeding jejunostomy was performed. At the time the patient was referred to our outpatient clinic, she was unable to eat and depended on total enteral nutrition. Computed tomography, endoscopy, and barium swallow study confirmed that there was no evidence of recurrent adenocarcinoma or mechanical gastric outlet obstruction. A gastric electrostimulator system (Enterra(®)) was implanted through a right thoracoscopic access and connected to the gastric conduit. At 6-month follow-up, there was a significant improvement of the total symptom score and quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

Electrostimulation of the gastric conduit after esophagectomy can safely be performed through a thoracoscopic approach and may represent a reasonable therapeutic option in patients with symptomatic and medically refractory delayed gastric emptying.

Modified dachengqi tang improves decreased gastrointestinal motility in postoperative esophageal cancer patients

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the clinical effects of modified dachengqi tang (DCQT) on promoting gastrointestinal motility in post-operative esophageal cancer patients.

METHODS

Sixty postoperative esophageal cancer patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to the modified treatment group or the control group (30 patients in each group). Patients in the treatment group were given DCQT made from decocted herbs and administered via nasojejunal tube at a dosage of 150 mL. Gastrointestinal motility was assessed by recording time for recovery of bowel sounds, flatus, defecation, and the total amount of gastric drainage during the first three postoperative days. Plasma motilin (MTL) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) were measured one hour before and three days after surgery.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, the times to first bowel sound, flatus, and defecation were significantly shorter and there was less gastric drainage in the treatment group (P < 0.01, P < 0.01, P < 0.01, and P < 0.05, respectively). In the treatment group, postoperative plasma MTL was significantly higher (P < 0.01) and VIP was significantly lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05). There was no difference found in either MTL or VIP from before to after operation in the treatment group (P > 0.05). MTL was significantly lower and VIP was higher postoperatively in the control group, compared to before surgery (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Modified DCQT effectively improved decreased gastrointestinal motility in postoperative esophageal cancer patients by increasing MTL and reducing VIP.

Surgical techniques to prevent delayed gastric emptying after esophagectomy with gastric interposition: a systematic review

Delayed gastric emptying is observed in 10% to 50% of patients after esophagectomy with gastric interposition. The effects of gastric interposition diameter, pyloric drainage, reconstructive route, and anastomotic site on postoperative gastric emptying were systematically reviewed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Most studies showed superior passage of the gastric tube compared with the whole stomach. Pyloric drainage is not significantly associated with the risk of developing delayed gastric emptying after esophagectomy. For reconstructive route and anastomotic site, available evidence on delayed gastric emptying is limited. Prospectively randomized studies with standardized outcome measurements are recommended.

Comparison of pyloric intervention strategies at the time of esophagectomy: is more better?

BACKGROUND

Controversy remains regarding the role of pyloric drainage procedures after esophagectomy with gastric conduit reconstruction. We aimed to compare the effect of pyloric drainage strategies upon subsequent risk of complications suggestive of conduit distention, including aspiration and anastomotic leak.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted reviewing patients undergoing esophagectomy between January 2007 and April 2012. Prospectively collected data included baseline comorbidities, operative details, hospital course, and complications. Statistical comparisons were performed using analysis of variance for continuous variables and χ(2) testing for categorical variables.

RESULTS

There were 361 esophagectomies performed during the study period; 68 were excluded from analysis (for prior esophagogastric surgery or benign disease or both). Among 293 esophagectomies included, emptying procedures were performed as follows: 44 (15%), no drainage procedure; 197 (67%), pyloromyotomy/pyloroplasty; 8 (3%), dilation alone; 44 (15%), dilation plus onabotulinumtoxinA. Aspiration occurred more frequently when no pyloric intervention was performed (5 of 44 [11.4%] versus 6 of 249 [2.4%], p = 0.030). The incidences of anastomotic leak (18 [6.1%]) and gastric outlet obstruction (5 [1.7%]) were statistically similar among groups. Subgroup analysis demonstrated persistence of these findings when limiting the comparison to transthoracic esophagectomies. Major complications directly related to pyloroplasty/pyloromyotomy occurred in 2 patients (0.6%), including 1 death (0.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that omission of pyloric intervention at the index operation results in more frequent aspiration events. The combination of dilation plus onabotulinumtoxinA provided for a similar complication profile compared with surgical drainage. Future prospective comparisons are needed to evaluate these short-term effects of pyloric intervention as well as long-term sequelae such as dumping syndrome and bile reflux.

Delayed gastric emptying after esophagectomy for malignancy

BACKGROUND

Controversy still exists about the need for pyloric drainage procedures after esophagectomy with gastric conduit reconstruction. Although pyloric drainage may prevent postoperative delayed gastric emptying (DGE), it may also promote dumping syndrome and bile reflux. The aims of this study were to audit the incidence and management of DGE in patients without routine pyloric drainage after esophagectomy in a university medical center.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From July 2006 to June 2012, data from 356 consecutive patients who underwent esophagectomy with a gastric conduit without pyloric drainage for esophageal or gastric cardia carcinoma were reviewed. Major observation parameters were the incidence, management, and outcomes of DGE.

RESULTS

Overall incidence of DGE was 15.7% (56 of 356). Early DGE developed in 26 patients, and late DGE developed in 30 patients. There were no differences in demographic and intraoperative data between the two groups with or without DGE. More DGE was documented in patients with an intra-right thoracic gastric conduit (P=.031). A higher incidence of postoperative pneumonia was observed in patients exhibiting early DGE, but without significance (P=.254). There were also no significant impacts on respiratory failure (P=.848) and anastomotic leakage (P=.257). There was an increased postoperative hospital stay with DGE, but without significance (P=.089). Endoscopic balloon dilatation of the pylorus was used to manage 33.9% of patients with DGE, yielding a 78.9% (15 of 19) success rate without complications. In 3 patients endoscopy showed the pylorus was open, and their symptoms improved over time. One patient with tumor-related DGE was treated by pyloric stent. The remaining patients were adequately treated with conservative management.

CONCLUSIONS

Omitting the operative drainage procedure does not lead to an increased frequency of DGE after esophagectomy with a gastric conduit. Many patients responded to conservative management, and endoscopic balloon pyloric dilatation can be effective in managing the DGE postoperatively.

Early oral feeding following thoracolaparoscopic oesophagectomy for oesophageal cancer

OBJECTIVES

Nil-by-mouth with enteral tube feeding is widely practised for several days after resection and reconstruction of oesophageal cancer. This study investigates early changes in postoperative gastric emptying and the feasibility of early oral feeding after thoracolaparoscopic oesophagectomy for patients with oesophageal cancer.

METHODS

Between January 2013 and August 2013, gastric emptying of liquid food and the feasibility of early oral feeding after thoracolaparoscopic oesophagectomy was investigated in 68 patients. Sixty-five patients previously managed in the same unit who routinely took liquid food 7 days after thoracolaparoscopic oesophagectomy served as controls.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative half gastric emptying time (GET1/2) was 66.4 ± 38.4 min for all 68 patients, and the mean GET1/2 at postoperative day (POD) 1 and POD 7 was statistically significantly shorter than preoperative GET1/2 (23.9 ± 15.7 min and 24.1 ± 7.9 min, respectively, both P-values <0.001). Of the 68 patients who were enrolled to analyse the feasibility of early oral feeding, 2 (3.0%) patients could not take food as early as planned. The rate of total complication was 20.6% (14/68) and 29.2% (19/65) in the early oral feeding group and the late oral feeding group, respectively (P = 0.249). Compared with the late oral feeding group, time to first flatus and bowel movement was significantly shorter in the early oral feeding group.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with preoperative gastric emptying, early postoperative gastric emptying for liquid food after oesophagectomy is significantly faster. Postoperative early oral feeding in patients with thoracolaparoscopic oesophagectomy is feasible and safe.

The role of one-year endoscopic follow-up for the esophageal remnant and gastric conduit after esophagectomy with gastric reconstruction for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

PURPOSE

After esophagectomy and gastric reconstruction for esophageal cancer, patients suffer from various symptoms that can detract from quality of life. Endoscopy is a useful diagnostic tool for evaluating patients after esophagectomy. This observational study was performed to investigate the correlation between symptoms and endoscopic findings one year after esophageal surgery and to assess the clinical usefulness of one-year endoscopic follow-up.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From 2001 to 2008, 162 patients who underwent esophagectomy with gastric reconstruction were endoscopically examined one year after operation.

RESULTS

Patients suffered from the following symptoms: nocturnal cough (n=10), regurgitation (n=7), cervical heartburn (n=3), lump sensation (n=2), dysphagia (n=20) and odynophagia (n=22). Eighty-five (52.5%) patients had abnormal findings on endoscopic examination. Twelve (7.4%) patients had reflux esophagitis, and 37 (22.8%) patients had an anastomotic stricture. Only stricture-related symptoms were correlated with the finding of anastomotic strictures (p<0.001). Two patients had recurrences at the anastomotic sites, and four patients had regional lymph node recurrences with gastric conduit invasion visualized by endoscopy. Newly-developed malignancies in the esophageal remnant or hypopharynx that were not detected by clinical symptoms and imaging studies were reported in two patients.

CONCLUSION

One year after esophagectomy, endoscopic findings were not correlated with clinical symptoms, except those related to stricture. Routine endoscopic follow-up is a useful tool for identifying latent functional and oncological lesions.

Anesthetic management for esophageal resection

Surgical resection remains a standard treatment option for localized esophageal cancer. Surgical approaches to esophagectomy include transhiatal and transthoracic techniques as well as minimally invasive techniques that have been developed to reduce the morbidities associated with laparotomy and thoracotomy incisions. The perioperative mortality for esophagectomy remains high with cardiopulmonary and anastomotic complications as the most frequent and serious morbidities. This article reviews the management of patients presenting for esophagectomy, with a focus on evidence-based anesthetic and perioperative approaches for improving outcomes.

Simple pyloroplasty using a linear stapler in surgery for esophageal cancer

This article describes a simple pyloroplasty procedure using a linear stapler in surgery for esophageal cancer. Simple pyloroplasty was carried out using a linear stapler in a total of 22 patients, whose stomachs were used as esophageal substitutes in the surgery for esophageal cancer. Endoscopy was performed and the pyloric diameter was measured perioperatively. A barium meal study was conducted 1 month after the surgery. Stapling enlarged the diameter of the pylorus by nearly 10 %. Endoscopy revealed a smooth inner surface of the pylorus, enlargement of pyloric channel, and fewer spasms of the pylorus at the 1-month follow-up. Postoperative barium meal studies showed good patency of all of the patients' gastric outlets. Simple pyloroplasty is a time-saving and non-soiling technique used to perform the drainage of the gastric conduit for resection of esophageal cancer.

Endoscopic pyloric balloon dilatation obviates the need for pyloroplasty at esophagectomy

BACKGROUND

Because the rate of acquired pyloric stenosis (APS) from truncal vagotomy is 15%, many surgeons perform pyloroplasty or pyloromyotomy at the time of esophagectomy. Endoscopic pyloric balloon dilatation (EPBD) is another method to manage APS. This study evaluated a cohort treated with preoperative EPBD.

METHODS

This is a retrospective review of all patients treated with preoperative EPBD and esophagectomy for cancer from 2002 to 2009 at Brigham and Women's Hospital, a tertiary care center. Outcome measures included need for subsequent surgery for gastric outlet obstruction, rate of pyloric stenosis noted on postoperative endoscopy, and complications.

RESULTS

Upon review of the series, 25 patients (80% male; median age, 63 [range 47-81] years) had outpatient preoperative EPBD and esophagectomies 1-2 weeks later and were included in the study. None had pyloroplasties or pyloromyotomies at the time of esophagectomy. Selected patients had postoperative endoscopy. Of the 25 patients, 20 had transhiatal esophagectomies, 3 had thoracoabdominal esophagectomies, and 2 had VATS 3-hole esophagectomies. Median follow-up time was 22 (range, 1-84) months. There were no complications from EPBD. There were no postoperative deaths. No patient needed a second operation for gastric outlet obstruction. All patients had postoperative barium swallows (BaS) or endoscopy or both. Only one patient (4%) required one postoperative EPBD to dilate a 16-mm pylorus. Three others had delayed gastric emptying on BaS with endoscopy showing each pylorus was wide open. Their symptoms improved with time.

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort, preoperative EPBD in all patients combined with postoperative EPBD in one patient obviated the need for pyloroplasty. This approach merits further study in a larger cohort, particularly to determine whether preoperative EPBD is necessary or if only selected postoperative EPBD is sufficient.

Functional disorders and quality of life after esophagectomy and gastric tube reconstruction for cancer

Functional disorders such as delayed gastric emptying, dumping syndrome or duodeno-gastro-esophageal reflux occur in half of the patients who undergo esophagectomy and gastric tube reconstruction for cancer. The potential role for pyloroplasty in the prevention of functional disorders is still debated. Antireflux fundoplication during esophagectomy can apparently reduce the reflux but at the cost of increasing the complexity of the operation; it is not widely used. The treatment of functional disorders arising after esophagectomy and gastroplasty for cancer is based mainly on dietary measures. Proton pump inhibitors have well documented efficiency and should be given routinely to prevent reflux complications. Erythromycin may prevent delayed gastric emptying, but it should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders. In the event of anastomotic stricture, endoscopic dilatation is usually efficient. Problems related to gastrointestinal functional disorders after esophageal resection and gastric tube reconstruction do not significantly impair long-term quality of life, which is mainly influenced by tumor recurrence.

Usefulness of Pyloromyotomy With Transhiatal Esophagectomy in Improving Gastric Emptying

INTRODUCTION

Pyloromyotomy is a pyloric drainage procedure routinely done during transhiatal esophagectomy (THE) to prevent delayed gastric emptying (GE) resulting from truncal vagotomy. However, controversy still surrounds the need for pyloric drainage following esophageal substitution with gastric conduit after esophagectomy. The aim of this study was to determine the usefulness of pyloromyotomy in improving the postoperative gastric emptying time.

METHODS

Forty patients with esophageal cancer underwent THE. 20 patients underwent THE without pyloromyotomy (group A), while the other 20 patients (group B) underwent THE with pyloromyotomy. Using Technetium-99 m, gastric scintigraphy-using gamma camera, was done for all the patients 6 months post-surgery to measure the gastric half emptying time (T50).

RESULTS

For the liquid phase, the mean (T50) in the patients without pyloromytomy (group A) was 74.5 ± 56.71 minutes ± SD versus 62.85 ± 59.35 minutes ± SD in the patients with pyloromytomy (group B) which is not significant (P = 0.529). For the solid phase, the mean (T50) in patients of group A was 139.40 ± 94.156 minutes ± SD versus 141.15 ± 48.423 minutes ± SD in group B (P value 0.941) which is also not significant.

CONCLUSION

Six months after THE, pyloromyotomy done with THE showed no significant value on affecting the mean gastric emptying time compared to those underwent THE without pyloromyotomy.

The esophageal remnant after gastric interposition

Gastric interposition is usually considered the reconstruction of choice following esophageal resection. However, a number of reports show that esophagectomy followed by a gastric transplant is associated with poor quality of life and significant reflux esophagitis in the esophageal remnant. The aim of this work is to review the factors affecting the mucosa of the esophageal remnant when using the stomach. A Medline was conducted. Additional references and search pathways were sourced from the references of reviewed articles. Reflux disease is considered an unavoidable consequence of esophageal resection followed by gastric interposition. Mucosal damage from acid and bile exposure in the esophageal remnant affects approximatively 50% of these patients. There is usually no correlation between symptoms and the presence of mucosal damage in the remaining esophagus. Endoscopy and endoscopic biopsies are the only reliable methods to document the status of the mucosa. When present, reflux esophagitis shows a progression from inflammation to erosions and to the development of columnar lined metaplasia. Esophageal and gastric function, gastric drainage operation, level of the anastomosis, route of reconstruction, and patients' position after the operation have all been shown to influence the severity and extent of damage in the esophageal remnant. Prevention and treatment of esophagitis in the remaining esophagus are discussed. When the stomach is used as a substitute to reconstruct the esophagus whether for malignant or benign conditions, an in vivo model of reflux diseases is created. Studies using this model may help clarify molecular and cellular events that lead to irreversible insult on the esophageal mucosa. Improvement to the reconstruction itself must be sought to favor better results with the gastric transplant.