A comprehensive review of anastomotic technique in 432 esophagectomies

Single-Center Randomized Trial Comparing Feeding Jejunostomy with Nasojejunal Tube Placement in Patients Undergoing Transhiatal Esophagectomy Post-Neoadjuvant Therapy for Esophageal Cancer

BACKGROUND

Enteral nutrition is the preferred mode of nutrition following esophagectomy. However, the preferred mode of enteral nutrition (feeding jejunostomy (FJ) vs. nasojejunal (NJ) tube) remains contentious. In this randomized controlled trial (RCT), we compared FJ with NJ tube feeding in terms of safety, feasibility, efficacy, and quality-of-life (QOL) parameters in Indian patients undergoing trans-hiatal esophagectomy (THE) for carcinoma esophagus.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This single-center, two-armed (FJ and NJ tube), non-inferiority RCT was conducted from March 2020 to January 2024. Forty-eight patients underwent THE with posterior-mediastinal-gastric pull-up and were randomized to NJ and FJ arms (24 in each group). The postoperative complications, catheter efficacy, and QOL parameters were compared between the two groups till the 6-week follow-up.

RESULTS

In this RCT, we found no significant difference in the occurrence of catheter-related complications, postoperative complication rate, catheter efficacy, and visual analog pain scores between patients with NJ tube and FJ, following THE for esophageal cancer. There was a significantly better self-reported physical domain QOL score noted in the NJ group, both at the time of discharge (44.7 ± 6.2 vs 39.8 + 5.6; p value, 0.005) and at the 6-week follow-up (55.4 ± 5.2 vs 48.6 ± 4.5; p value, < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Based on the findings of our RCT, we conclude that both enteral access methods (NJ vs. FJ) exhibit comparable incidences of catheter-related complications. The use of NJ tube is a viable alternative to a surgical FJ, has the benefit of early removal, and saves the distress associated with a tube per abdomen.

Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in the surgically altered patient

As management of upper gastrointestinal malignancies improves, and with popularization of bariatric surgery, endoscopists are likely to meet patients with altered upper gastrointestinal anatomy. Short-term, the surgery can cause complications like bleeding, leaks, and fistulas, and longer-term problems such as intestinal or biliary anastomotic strictures or biliary stones can arise, all necessitating endoscopy. In addition, the usual upper gastrointestinal pathologies can also still occur. These patients pose unique challenges. To proceed, understanding the new layout of the upper gastrointestinal tract is essential. The endoscopist, armed with a clear plan for navigation, can readily diagnose and manage most commonly occurring conditions, such as marginal ulcers and proximal anastomotic strictures with standard endoscopic instruments. With complex reconstructions involving long segments of small bowel, such as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, utilization of balloon-assisted enteroscopy may be necessary, mandating modification of procedures such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Successful endoscopic management of patients with altered anatomy will require prior planning and preparation to ensure the appropriate equipment, setting, and skill set is provided.

Fashioning esophagogastric anastomosis in robotic Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy: a multicenter experience

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study is to compare outcomes of the robotic hand-sewn, linear- and circular-stapled techniques performed to create an intrathoracic esophagogastric anastomosis in patients who underwent Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy.

METHODS

Patients who underwent a planned Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy were retrospectively analysed from prospectively maintained databases. Only patients who underwent a robotic thoracic approach with the creation of an intrathoracic esophagogastric anastomosis were included in the study. Patients were divided into three groups: hand-sewn-, circular stapled-, and linear-stapled anastomosis group. Demographic information and surgery-related data were extracted. The primary outcome was the rate of anastomotic leakages (AL) in the three groups. Moreover, the rate of grade A, B and C anastomotic leakage were evaluated. In addition, patients of each group were divided in subgroups according to the characteristics of anastomotic fashioning technique.

RESULTS

Two hundred and thirty patients were enrolled in the study. No significant differences were found between the three groups about AL rate (p = 0.137). Considering the management of the AL for each of the three groups, no significant differences were found. Evaluating the correlation between AL rate and the characteristics of anastomotic fashioning technique, no significant differences were found.

CONCLUSIONS

No standardized anastomotic fashioning technique has yet been generally accepted. This study could be considered a call to perform ad hoc high-quality studies involving high-volume centers for upper gastrointestinal surgery to evaluate what is the most advantageous anastomotic technique.

Short-Term Outcomes and Quality of Life Following Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy in a Tertiary Care Center in Southern India

INTRODUCTION

With the advent of multimodality therapy and minimally invasive surgical approaches, patients suffering from carcinoma esophagus are showing promising outcomes. Hence, the frontier needs to be widened to assess the postoperative quality of life (QoL) of those surviving carcinoma esophagus. The objective of the study was to determine the short-term outcomes of minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) /hybrid esophagectomies in carcinoma esophagus and the organ-specific QoL in survivors of MIE for carcinoma esophagus, and to compare health-related QoL in patients following MIE for carcinoma esophagus with the general population.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

A longitudinal study design was used to evaluate the short-term postoperative outcomes of patients undergoing MIE for carcinoma esophagus between July 1, 2021, to July 15, 2022, and analyze the QoL of those patients who survived at one year without tumor recurrence. QoL was assessed using the European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QoL Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) and the EORTC QoL Questionnaire - Oesophageal Cancer Module (EORTC QLQ-OES18).

RESULTS

A total of 15 patients who underwent minimal invasive/hybrid esophagectomy for esophageal carcinomawere included. Of these, 13 patients underwent hybrid esophagectomy while two patients underwent thoraco-laparoscopic esophagectomy. Squamous cell carcinoma was observed as the most common histological variant (60%) while 33% were adenocarcinoma and 6.7% lymphoma. The most common site of the tumor was the lower one-third esophagus (60%). Nine out of 15 patients developed postoperative complications needing prolonged ICU stay. One major anastomotic leak as well as one conduit necrosis was observed among 15 cases operated. Median length of hospital stay was 16 (IQR 12-24). QoL was assessed among 12 patients at the one-year follow-up excluding mortality cases and patients with tumor recurrence. The patients following MIE for carcinoma esophagus were observed to have low scores in physical functioning, role functioning, and social function when compared with the general population. Cognitive functioning and emotional function were not found to be significantly different. No statistically significant difference was observed in the global health status among the two groups. There was no significant difference found in the general symptoms score comparison of the MIE patients with the general population. When it comes to organ-specific symptom scales, reflux was observed as a major issue among the patients who survived carcinoma esophagus after undergoing MIE. Dysphagia and dry mouth received low scores suggestive of minor issues. Though analysis of global health QoL scores of those with postoperative complications and those who had uneventful recovery at one year revealed a higher score for the latter, it was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative complications can prolong hospital stay, delay resuming normal work, and affect the global QoL of patients compared with those who recovered uneventfully. Physical and role functions were observed to be deficient among survived patients when compared with the normal population. Nutritional prehabilitation, cutting-edge surgical practice including minimally invasive techniques, minimizing deviation from normal postoperative recovery by high-quality ICU care, and postoperative rehabilitation are the cornerstones to ensure better QoL.

Reducing Conduit Ischemia and Anastomotic Leaks in Transhiatal Esophagectomy: Six Principles

BACKGROUND

Transhiatal esophagectomy (THE) is an accepted approach for distal esophageal (DE) and gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancers. Its reported weaknesses are limited loco-regional resection and high anastomotic leak rates. We have used laparoscopic assistance to perform a THE (LapTHE) as our preferred method of resection for GEJ and DE cancers for over 20 years. Our unique approach and experience may provide technical insights and perhaps superior outcomes.

METHODS

We reviewed all patients who underwent LapTHE for DE and GEJ malignancy over 10 years (2011-2020). We included 6 principles in our approach: (1) minimize dissection trauma using laparoscopy; (2) routine Kocher maneuver; (3) division of lesser sac adhesions exposing the entire gastroepiploic arcade; (4) gaining excess conduit mobility, allowing resection of proximal stomach, and performing the anastomosis with a well perfused stomach; (5) stapled side-to-side anastomosis; and (6) routine feeding jejunostomy and early oral diet.

RESULTS

One hundred and forty-seven patients were included in the analysis. The median number of lymph nodes procured was 19 (range 5-49). Negative margins were achieved in all cases (95% confidence interval [CI] 98-100%). Median hospital stay was 7 days. Overall major complication rate was 24% (17-32%), 90-day mortality was 2.0% (0.4-5.8%), and reoperation was 5.4% (2.4-10%). Three patients (2.0%, 0.4-5.8%) developed anastomotic leaks. Median follow-up was 901 days (range 52-5240). Nine patients (6.1%, 2.8-11%) developed anastomotic strictures.

CONCLUSIONS

Routine use of LapTHE for DE and GEJ cancers and inclusion of these six operative principles allow for a low rate of anastomotic complications relative to national benchmarks.

Postoperative complications analysis of circular stapled versus linear stapled anastomosis for patients undergoing esophagectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The choice of anastomosis technique after esophagectomy is closely associated with the postoperative complications. Whether circular stapled or linear stapled anastomosis is the optimal technique has not been established. Therefore, we conducted this meta-analysis to show the latest and most comprehensive published assessment of circular stapled anastomosis in comparison with linear stapled anastomosis in postoperative complications.

METHODS

Databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of science, Cochrane Library) were searched for all randomized controlled trials and comparative studies comparing circular stapled anastomosis with linear stapled anastomosis after esophagectomy. The odd ratio and mean difference with 95% confidence interval were calculated. We used the Higgins I² statistics to assess the statistical heterogeneity between studies. Review manager (version 5.4) software was used in this analysis.

RESULTS

Sixteen studies with 2322 patients were included in our study. The study demonstrated that the use of linear stapled technique after esophagectomy could reduce the risk of both anastomotic leakage (P = 0.0003) and stricture (P < 0.00001) compared with circular stapled technique. Stratification by anastomotic site showed that no matter what kind of anastomotic site (cervical or thoracic anastomosis) was used, linear stapled anastomosis could effectively reduce the anastomotic stricture in comparison with circular stapled anastomosis. Moreover, linear stapled anastomosis could decrease the risk of thoracic anastomotic leakage. There were no significant differences between circle stapled anastomosis and linear stapled anastomosis in reflux esophagitis (P = 0.17), pneumonia (P = 0.91), operation time (P = 0.41) and hospital stay (P = 0.38).

CONCLUSIONS

The study suggested that linear stapled anastomosis could be considered to be an optimal treatment associated with a reduced risk of anastomotic leakage and stricture in comparison with circular stapled anastomosis.

Clinical utility and applicability of the,Esophagus Complication Consensus Group' (ECCG) classification of anastomotic leakage following hybrid Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leakage (AL) remains the leading surgical complication following Ivor-Lewis (IL) esophagectomy. Different treatment options of AL exist but outcome is difficult to compare due to a lack of generally accepted classifications. This retrospective study was conducted to analyze the clinical significance of a recently proposed classification based on the management of AL.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A cohort of 954 consecutive patients undergoing hybrid IL esophagectomy (laparoscopy/thoracotomy) was analysed. AL was defined according to the,Esophagus Complication Consensus Group' (ECCG) criteria depending on its treatment: conservative (AL type I), interventional endoscopic (AL type II), and surgical (AL type III). Primary outcome was single or multiple organ failure (Clavien-Dindo IVA/B) associated with AL.

RESULTS

Overall morbidity was 63.0% and 8.8% (84/954 patients) developed an AL postoperatively. Three patients (3.5%) had an AL type I, 57 patients (67.9%) an AL type II and 24 patients (28.6%) an AL type III. For patients managed surgically, AL was diagnosed significantly earlier (median days: AL type III: 2 vs AL type II: 6, p < 0.001). Associated organ failure (CD IVA/B) was significantly lower for AL type II as compared to AL type III (21.1% versus 45.8%, p < 0.0001). In-hospital mortality was 3.5% for AL type II and 8.3% for AL type III (p = 0.789). There was no difference for re-admission to ICU and overall length of hospital stay.

CONCLUSION

The proposed ECCG classification is simply to apply and discriminates the post-treatment severity of AL but does not aid to implement a treatment algorithm.

Management of Esophago-Gastric Junction Carcinoma: A Narrative Multidisciplinary Review

Esophagogastric junction (EGJ) carcinoma represents a specific site of disease, given the opportunities for multimodal clinical care and management and the possibilities of combined treatments. It encompasses various clinical subgroups of disease that are heterogeneous and deserve different treatments; therefore, the guidelines have progressively evolved over time, considering the evidence provided by clinical trials. The aim of this narrative review was to summarize the main evidence, which orientates the current guidelines, and to collect the main ongoing studies to address existing gray areas.

The Feasibility of Early Oral Feeding After Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Combined With "Non-Tube No Fasting"-Enhanced Recovery

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of early oral feeding (EOF) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (nCT) combined with "non-tube no fasting"-enhanced recovery after minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE).

METHODS

This retrospective study investigated patients who underwent nCT combined with non-tube no fasting-enhanced recovery after MIE in the Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ward I, of the authors' hospital from January 2014 to August 2017. These patients were divided into an early oral feeding (EOF) group (n = 112) and a late oral feeding (LOF) group (n = 69). The postoperative complications were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 181 patients (112 patients in the EOF group and 69 patients in the LOF group). No significant differences were found between the two groups in the incidence rates of complications such as anastomotic leakage (P = 0.961), pneumonia (P = 0.450), respiratory failure (P = 0.944), heart failure (P = 1.000), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) (P = 0.856), and unplanned reoperation (P = 0.440), whereas the time to the first postoperative flatus/bowel movement (P < 0.001) and the postoperative length of stay (P < 0.001) were significantly better in the EOF group than in the LOF group..

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, EOF after nCT combined with non-tube no fasting-enhanced recovery after MIE did not significantly increase complications, but significantly shortened the time to the first postoperative flatus/bowel movement and the postoperative length of stay.

Risk Factors of Anastomosis Stricture After Esophagectomy and the Impact of Anastomosis Technique

BACKGROUND

Anastomosis complications after esophagectomy are related to postoperative survival and quality of life. This is a retrospective observational study to identify risk factors for anastomotic stricture after esophageal cancer surgery and the effect of different anastomosis techniques on stricture development.

METHODS

This study included 737 patients who underwent esophagectomy for esophageal cancer that used stomach conduits. Four types of anastomoses were used: manual sewing (n = 221, 30%), circular stapling (n = 172, 23%), hybrid linear stapling with a 45-mm stapler (HLS; n = 155, 21%), and triangular linear stapling with 60-mm staplers (TLS; n = 189, 26%). Multivariate analysis was performed to evaluate the risk factors for stricture.

RESULTS

Strictures that required endoscopic dilatation within 1 year after surgery occurred in 105 patients (14%), and 13% of the strictures were related to leakage. Multivariate analysis revealed that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (hazard ratio [HR] 1.726, P = .017), leakage (HR 2.502, P = .015), and anastomosis techniques other than TLS (manual sewing: HR 9.588; circular stapling: HR 6.516; HLS HR 5.462, all P < .001) were significant risk factors for stricture. TLS significantly reduced the stricture rate (3.2%) compared with other techniques (manual sewing: 22.2%; circular stapling:, 14.5%; HLS: 16.1%; P < .001). Stricture rate was lower in the TLS group in patients without leakage (P < .001); however, the effect disappeared with leakage.

CONCLUSIONS

Anastomosis stricture occurred in 14% of esophagectomy patients. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, leakage, and anastomosis technique are risk factors for stricture. A large anastomosis area with the TLS technique using 60-mm length linear staplers prevented stricture, especially when leakage was not observed.

Hybrid esophagogastric tube anastomosis after minimally invasive McKeown esophagectomy to prevent stenosis in patients with esophageal cancer

PURPOSE

The use of a small circular stapler has been reported to increase the incidence of benign anastomotic stenosis in reconstruction. In circular stapling anastomosis after esophagectomy, the anastomotic lumen is dependent on the size of the esophagus and the replacement organ. We developed a new and foolproof method to prevent stenosis in esophagogastric tube anastomosis for patients with esophageal cancer that is not dependent on operator skill.

METHODS

Seven patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma underwent minimally invasive McKeown esophagectomy in our hospital. Esophagogastric tube anastomosis was tried for all patients using the novel "hybrid esophagogastric tube anastomosis" technique. A 21-mm circular stapler was applied to perform an end-to-side anastomosis between the cervical esophagus and the posterior wall of the gastric tube. Then, a 30-mm linear stapler was positioned in the esophagogastric anastomosis formed by the 21-mm circular stapler with the anvil fork inserted into the esophagus and the cartridge fork inserted into the gastric tube. A supplementary side-to-side anastomosis of appropriately 15 mm was created. Afterward, the entry hole was closed with a linear stapler.

RESULTS

The hybrid esophagogastric tube anastomosis was successful in all seven patients receiving it between June 2020 and March 2022. No postoperative complications related to this anastomosis were observed in any of the patients. Five patients underwent follow-up gastrointestinal endoscopy at 6 months after esophagectomy. No patient had an anastomotic stenosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Hybrid esophagogastric tube anastomosis can be performed easily and safely and can reduce the complications associated with anastomosis.

Continuously sutured versus linear-stapled anastomosis in robot-assisted hybrid Ivor Lewis esophageal surgery following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy: a single-center cohort study

BACKGROUND

Esophageal cancer surgery is technically highly demanding. During the past decade robot-assisted surgery has successfully been introduced in esophageal cancer treatment. Various techniques are being evaluated in different centers. In particular, advantages and disadvantages of continuously sutured (COSU) or linear-stapled (LIST) gastroesophageal anastomoses are debated. Here, we comparatively analyzed perioperative morbidities and short-term outcomes in patients undergoing hybrid robot-assisted esophageal surgery following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT), with COSU or LIST anastomoses in a single center.

METHODS

Following standardized, effective, nCRT, 53 patients underwent a hybrid Ivor Lewis robot-assisted esophagectomy with COSU (n = 32) or LIST (n = 21) gastroesophageal anastomoses. Study endpoints were intra- and postoperative complications, in-hospital morbidity and mortality. Duration of operation, intensive care unit (ICU) and overall hospital stay were also evaluated. Furthermore, rates of rehospitalization, endoscopies, anastomotic stenosis and recurrence were assessed in a 90-day follow-up.

RESULTS

Demographics, ASA scores and tumor characteristics were comparable in the two groups. Median duration of operation was similar in patients with COSU and LIST anastomosis (467 vs. 453 min, IQR 420-521 vs. 416-469, p = 0.0611). Major complications were observed in 4/32 (12.5%) and 4/21 (19%) patients with COSU or LIST anastomosis, respectively (p = 0.697). Anastomotic leakage was observed in 3/32 (9.3%) and 2/21 (9.5%) (p = 1.0) patients with COSU or LIST anastomosis, respectively. Pleural empyema occurred in 1/32 (3.1%) and 2/21 (9.5%) (p = 0.555) patients, respectively. Mortality was similar in the two groups (1/32, 3.1% and 1/21, 4.7%, p = 1.0). Median ICU stay did not differ in patients with COSU or LIST anastomosis (p = 0.255), whereas a slightly, but significantly (p = 0.0393) shorter overall hospital stay was observed for COSU, as compared to LIST cohort (median: 20 vs. 21 days, IQR 17-22 vs. 18-28).

CONCLUSIONS

COSU is not inferior to LIST in the performance of gastroesophageal anastomosis in hybrid Ivor Lewis operations following nCRT.

Linear- versus circular-stapled esophagogastric anastomosis during esophagectomy: systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Different techniques have been described for esophagogastric anastomosis. Over the past decades, surgeons have been improving anastomotic techniques with a gradual shift from hand-sewn to stapled anastomosis. Nowadays, circular-stapled (CS) and linear-stapled (LS) anastomosis are commonly used during esophagectomy.

METHODS

PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched up to June 2022. The included studies evaluated short-term outcomes for LS vs. CS anastomosis in patients undergoing esophagectomy for cancer. Primary outcomes were anastomotic leak (AL) and stricture (AS). Risk ratio (RR) and standardized mean difference (SMD) were used as pooled effect size measures whereas 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were used to assess relative inference.

RESULTS

Eighteen studies (2861 patients) were included. Overall, 1371 (47.9%) underwent CS while 1490 (52.1%) LS. Compared to CS, LS was associated with a significantly reduced RR for AL (RR = 0.70; 95% CI 0.54-0.91; p < 0.01) and AS (RR = 0.32; 95% CI 0.20-0.51; p < 0.0001). Stratified subgroup analysis according to the level of anastomosis (cervical and thoracic) still shows a tendency toward reduced risk for LS. No differences were found for pneumonia (RR 0.78; p = 0.12), reflux esophagitis (RR 0.74; p = 0.36), operative time (SMD -0.25; p = 0.16), hospital length of stay (SMD 0.13; p = 0.51), and 30-day mortality (RR 1.26; p = 0.42).

CONCLUSIONS

LS anastomosis seems associated with a tendency toward a reduced risk for AL and AS. Although surgeon's own training and experience might direct the choice of esophagogastric anastomosis, our meta-analysis encourages the use of LS anastomosis.

The influence of anastomotic techniques on postoperative anastomotic complications: Results of the Oesophago-Gastric Anastomosis Audit

BACKGROUND

The optimal anastomotic techniques in esophagectomy to minimize rates of anastomotic leakage and conduit necrosis are not known. The aim of this study was to assess whether the anastomotic technique was associated with anastomotic failure after esophagectomy in the international Oesophago-Gastric Anastomosis Audit cohort.

METHODS

This prospective observational multicenter cohort study included patients undergoing esophagectomy for esophageal cancer over 9 months during 2018. The primary exposure was the anastomotic technique, classified as handsewn, linear stapled, or circular stapled. The primary outcome was anastomotic failure, namely a composite of anastomotic leakage and conduit necrosis, as defined by the Esophageal Complications Consensus Group. Multivariable logistic regression modeling was used to identify the association between anastomotic techniques and anastomotic failure, after adjustment for confounders.

RESULTS

Of the 2238 esophagectomies, the anastomosis was handsewn in 27.1%, linear stapled in 21.0%, and circular stapled in 51.9%. Anastomotic techniques differed significantly by the anastomosis sites (P < .001), with the majority of neck anastomoses being handsewn (69.9%), whereas most chest anastomoses were stapled (66.3% circular stapled and 19.3% linear stapled). Rates of anastomotic failure differed significantly among the anastomotic techniques (P < .001), from 19.3% in handsewn anastomoses, to 14.0% in linear stapled anastomoses, and 12.1% in circular stapled anastomoses. This effect remained significant after adjustment for confounding factors on multivariable analysis, with an odds ratio of 0.63 (95% CI, 0.46-0.86; P = .004) for circular stapled versus handsewn anastomosis. However, subgroup analysis by anastomosis site suggested that this effect was predominantly present in neck anastomoses, with anastomotic failure rates of 23.2% versus 14.6% versus 5.9% for handsewn versus linear stapled anastomoses versus circular stapled neck anastomoses, compared with 13.7% versus 13.8% versus 12.2% for chest anastomoses.

CONCLUSIONS

Handsewn anastomoses appear to be independently associated with higher rates of anastomotic failure compared with stapled anastomoses. However, this effect seems to be largely confined to neck anastomoses, with minimal differences between techniques observed for chest anastomoses. Further research into standardization of anastomotic approach and techniques may further improve outcomes.

End-to-side circular stapled versus side-to-side linear stapled intrathoracic esophagogastric anastomosis following minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy: comparison of short-term outcomes

PURPOSE

The search for the optimal procedure for creation of a safe gastroesophageal intrathoracic anastomosis with a lower risk of leakage in totally minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy (TMIIL) is ongoing. In the present study, we compared the outcomes of end-to-side (with circular stapler [CS]) and side-to-side (with linear stapler [LS]) techniques for intrathoracic anastomosis during TMIIL performed in 2 European high-volume centers for upper gastrointestinal surgery. A propensity score method was used to compare the CS and LS groups.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated patients with lower esophageal cancer or Siewert type 1 or 2 esophagogastric junction carcinoma who underwent a planned TMIIL esophagectomy, performed from January 2017 to September 2020. The anastomosis was created by a semi-mechanical technique using a LS in one center and by a mechanical technique using a CS in the other center. General features, operative techniques, pathology data, and short-term outcomes were analyzed. Statistical evaluations were performed on the whole cohort, stratifying the analyses by risk strata factors identified with the propensity scores, and on a subgroup of patients matched by propensity score. The primary endpoint of the study was the rate of anastomotic leakage in the two groups. Secondary endpoints included rates of anastomotic stricture and overall postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Considering the whole population, 256 patients were included; of those, 220 received the anastomosis with a circular stapler (CS group), and 36 received the anastomosis with a linear stapler (LS group). No significant differences by group in terms of sex, age, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification, and type of neoplasm were showed. The rate of anastomotic leakage did not differ in the two groups (9.6% CS vs. 5.6% LS, p = 0.438), as well as the rate of anastomotic stricture in the 3-month follow-up (0.9% CS vs. 2.8% LS, p = 0.367). The rate of chyle leakage and of pulmonary, cardiac, and infective complications was not significantly different in the groups. After propensity score matching, 72 patients were included in the analysis. The 2 obtained propensity score matched groups did not differ for any of the clinical and pathologic variables considered for the analysis, resulting in well-balanced cohorts. The results obtained on the whole population were confirmed in the matched groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our study suggest that both techniques for esophagogastric anastomosis during TMIIL are feasible, safe, and effective, with comparable rates of postoperative anastomotic leakage and stricture.

Is Hypertrophic or Keloid Wound Scar a Risk Factor for Stricture at Esophagogastric Anastomosis Site after Esophageal Cancer Operation?

Background/Aims

Anastomotic stricture at the esophagus and the conduit anastomosis site after the surgical resection of esophageal cancer is relatively common. This study examined whether a hypertrophic scar or keloid formation at a surgical wound is related to an anastomotic stricture.

Methods

From March 2007 to July 2017, 59 patients underwent curative surgery for esophageal cancer. In 38 patients, end-to-end anastomosis (EEA) of the esophagus and the conduit was performed using EEA 25 mm. A hypertrophic wound scar was defined when the width of the midline laparotomy wound scar exceeded 2 mm. The relationship between the hypertrophic scar and stricture and the other risk factors for anastomotic stricture in these 38 patients was analyzed.

Results

Of the 38 patients, eight patients (21.1%) had an anastomotic stricture, and a hypertrophic skin scar was observed in 14 patients (36.8%). Univariate analysis revealed lower BMI and hypertrophic scars as risk factors (p=0.032, p=0.001 respectively). Multivariate analysis revealed a hypertrophic scar as an independent risk factor for an anastomotic stricture (p=0.010, OR=27.06, 95% CI 2.19-334.40).

Conclusions

Hypertrophic wound scars can be a risk factor for anastomotic stricture after surgery for esophageal cancer. An earlier prediction of anastomotic stricture by detecting hypertrophic wound healing in patients undergoing esophagectomy may improve the patients' quality of life and surgical outcomes by earlier treatments.

Factors resulting in postoperative dysphagia following esophagectomy: a narrative review

Esophagectomy is a technically involved surgery and can have significant postoperative morbidity. Although the mortality rate following esophagectomy has decreased in recent years, this surgical procedure has a relatively high complication rate compared to other surgeries to resect cancer. One of the most common complaints after esophagectomy is dysphagia. Dysphagia after esophagectomy can significantly affect quality of life. Dysphagia is a complication following esophagectomy that can lead to respiratory deterioration and death. The most common sites of postoperative dysphagia are the gastroesophageal anastomosis, gastric conduit, pylorus and the hiatus. Without appropriate treatment of dysphagia, malnutrition and dehydration can develop. These factors can lead to significant impacts to the overall health of a patient and increase mortality. A detailed literature review provided data to support diagnostic modalities and management strategies to treat postoperative dysphagia at these common areas. A systematic, evidence-based approach to diagnosis and treatment of postoperative dysphagia allows for prompt intervention and a decrease in morbidity and mortality. Treatment options for dysphagia vary, depending on the etiology. Based on the location and mechanism of dysphagia, options include stenting, dilation and surgical revision. Early treatment of dysphagia after esophagectomy can lessen the morbidity from this complication and improve quality of life.

Circular stapled technique versus modified Collard technique for cervical esophagogastric anastomosis after esophagectomy: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

This study was performed to investigate the efficacy of the modified Collard (MC) technique for reducing anastomotic stricture after esophagectomy compared with the circular stapled (CS) technique.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

The currently available techniques of anastomosis after esophagectomy are associated with a significant risk of anastomotic complications. However, the optimal anastomotic technique after esophagectomy has not yet been established.

METHODS

We randomly allocated patients to either the CS group or the MC group. The primary endpoint was the incidence of anastomotic stricture. The secondary endpoints included the incidence of postoperative complications (including anastomotic leakage) and quality of life (QOL). All anastomoses were performed after indocyanine green evaluation for objective homogenization of blood flow to the gastric conduit between the two techniques.

RESULTS

Among 100 randomized patients (CS group, n = 50; MC group, n = 50), anastomotic strictures were observed in 18 (42%) patients in the CS group and in no patients in the MC group. There were no significant between-group differences in anastomotic leakage (CS group, 7% vs. MC group, 8%; p = 0.94). QOL domains of dysphagia and choking when swallowing at 3 months after surgery were significantly better in the MC group than in the CS group.

CONCLUSIONS

The MC technique reduces the incidence of anastomotic stricture and improves postoperative QOL. Furthermore, the incidence of anastomotic leakage is comparable between the two techniques based on accurate comparison under objective homogenization of the gastric conduit condition.

Efficacy of endoscopic filling with polyglycolic acid sheets and fibrin glue for anastomotic leak after esophageal cancer surgery: identification of an optimal technique

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leak is a potentially life-threatening complication following esophageal cancer surgery. In this study, we aimed to clarify the efficacy of endoscopic filling with polyglycolic acid (PGA) sheets and fibrin glue for anastomotic leak after esophageal cancer surgery.

METHODS

Consecutive patients who underwent endoscopic filling with PGA sheets and fibrin glue for anastomotic leak after esophageal cancer surgery between August 2014 and January 2020 were included in the study, with its efficacy retrospectively reviewed. We performed endoscopic filling using two methods: (1) filling the fistula with PGA sheets, followed by the application of a fibrinogen and thrombin solution (conventional method) and (2) filling the fistula with PGA sheets pre-soaked in a fibrinogen solution, followed by the application of a thrombin solution (pre-soak method).

RESULTS

A total of 14 patients underwent endoscopic filling procedures within the study period. The endoscopic filling procedures were successfully performed in all cases and no adverse events associated with the procedures were observed. Fistula closure was obtained in 10 (71%) cases. In the 10 successful cases, the median number of procedures was 1 (range 1-3) and the median time from the first procedure to oral intake was 7.5 days (range 4-36 days). The success rate of the pre-soak method was significantly higher than that of the conventional method (90% vs. 25%, P = 0.041).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic filling with PGA sheets and fibrin glue is a safe and effective treatment for the closure of an anastomotic leak. The pre-soak method can achieve successful endoscopic filling.

Techniques of Esophageal Anastomoses for Esophagectomy

This article discusses and illustrates a variety of accepted techniques of esophagogastric anastomosis during an esophagectomy. The performance of an anastomotic technique can be surgeon specific, although it is of great benefit for the esophageal surgeon to be facile and adept in multiple techniques, as occasionally the clinical situation may be better suited for a particular technique. Regardless of the method of creating the esophagogastric anastomosis, the goal is to create a viable, tension-free and nonobstructive anastomosis with adequate margins.

Major modifications to minimize thoracic esophago-gastric leak and eradicate esophageal stricture after Ivor Lewis esophagectomy

BACKGROUND

The Ivor Lewis esophagectomy (ILE) remains the procedure of choice for localized middle or lower esophageal carcinoma. Nevertheless, anastomotic leak remains a common complication with rates from 3% to 25% and a stricture rate as high as 40%. The frequency of these complications suggests that the procedure itself may have inherent limitations including the use of potentially ischemic tissue for the esophagogastric anastomosis. We introduce a modified technique that reduces operative steps, preserves blood supply, and uses a modified esophagogastric anastomosis.

METHODS

All consecutive patients undergoing ILE with the described modified technique were identified. An esophagram was performed on postoperative day six or seven. To ensure that all cases were identified, anastomotic leaks were defined as any radiographic evidence of contrast extravasation.

RESULTS

A total of 110 patients underwent the modified esophagectomy with 2 anastomotic leaks (1.82%) and zero strictures. There was 1 late death but no early deaths (<30 or 90 days) or early re-admissions (<30 days). The average number of risk factors was 2.12, and 98 patients (90%) had at least 1 risk factor in their medical history.

CONCLUSIONS

The modifications proposed simplify procedural steps, limit unnecessary dissection and introduce a technique that ends the practice of connecting ischemic tissue. We believe this technique contributes to surgical durability and reduces the rate of postoperative leak and eliminates stricture.

Development and validation of a nomogram to predict anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy for esophageal carcinoma

Background

This study aimed to identify variables associated with anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy and established a tool for anastomotic leakage prediction.

Methods

Twenty-six preoperative and postoperative variables were retrospectively collected from esophageal cancer patients who were treated with radical esophagectomy from January 2018 to June 2020 in the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University. SPSS Version 23.0 and Empower Stats software were used for establishing a nomogram after screening relevant variables by univariate and multivariate Logistic regression analyses. The established nomogram was identified by depicting the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and calibration curve, which was verified by 1,000 bootstrap resamples method.

Results

A total of 604 eligible esophageal cancer patients were included, of which 51 (8.4%) patients had anastomotic leakage. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that smoking, anastomotic location, anastomotic technique, prognostic nutritional index (PNI) and ASA score were independent risks of anastomotic leakage. The area under curve (AUC) of ROC in the established nomogram was 0.764 (95% CI, 0.69–0.83). The internal validation confirmed that the nomogram had a great discrimination ability (AUC =0.766). Depicted calibration curve demonstrated a well-fitted prediction and observation probability. In addition, the decision curve analysis concluded that the newly established nomogram is significant for clinical decision-making.

Conclusions

This nomogram provided the individual prediction of anastomotic leakage for esophageal cancer patients after surgery, which might benefit treatment results for patients and clinicians, as well as pre-and postoperative intervention strategy-making.

Progress in the esophagogastric anastomosis and the challenges of minimally invasive thoracoscopic surgery

The esophagogastric anastomosis is most commonly performed to restore digestive tract continuity after esophagectomy for cancer. Despite a long history of clinical research and development of high-tech staplers, this procedure is still feared by most surgeons and associated with a 10% leakage rate. Among specific factors that may contribute to failure of the esophageal anastomosis are the absence of serosa layer, longitudinal orientation of muscle fibers, and ischemia of the gastric conduit. It has recently been suggested that the gut microbiome may influence the healing process of the anastomosis through the presence of collagenolytic bacterial strains, indicating that suture breakdown is not only a matter of collagen biosynthesis. The esophagogastric anastomosis can be performed either in the chest or neck, and can be completely hand-sewn, completely stapled (circular or linear stapler), or semi-mechanical (linear stapler posterior wall and hand-sewn anterior wall). Because of the lack of randomized clinical trials, no conclusive evidence is available, and the debate between the hand-sewn and the stapling technique is still ongoing even in the present era of robotic surgery. Centralization of care has improved the overall postoperative outcomes of esophagectomy, but the esophagogastric anastomosis remains the Achille’s heel of the procedure. More research and network collaboration of experts is needed to improve safety and clinical outcomes.

Appropriate duration of endoscopic dilation for postoperative benign esophageal strictures

BACKGROUND

Benign esophageal strictures are a frequent complication after esophageal surgery or extensive endoscopic submucosal dissection. Endoscopic dilation is the preferred treatment in clinical practice. However, the allocation of time for each dilation is unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the appropriate duration of endoscopic dilation for benign esophageal strictures after esophageal surgery or endoscopic submucosal dissection.

METHODS

Patients with benign esophageal strictures after esophageal surgery or endoscopic submucosal dissection between July 2010 and July 2018 were retrospectively included in this study. According to the dilation time (1, 3, 5 min), patients were divided into three groups. The clinical effects and adverse events were compared among the three groups.

RESULTS

Altogether, 57 patients, including 21 in the 1-min group, 18 in the 3-min group and 18 in the 5-min group, were included. All patients underwent endoscopic treatment successfully. The stricture recurrence rate was 76.19% in the 1-min group, 55.56% in the 3-min group and 61.11% in the 5-min group. The median overall dysphagia-free period was 2.60 (range, 0.80-12.00) months in the 1-min group, 6.60 (range, 1.80-12.00) months in the 3-min group and 6.25 (range, 2.40-12.00) months in the 5-min group (P < 0.05). For patients who developed stricture recurrence, the mean dysphagia-free periods were 2.26  ±  1.27 months, 4.00  ±  1.76 months and 4.23  ±  1.63 months, respectively (P < 0.05). The dysphagia-free periods were comparable between the 3- and 5-min groups and were longer than those in the 1-min group. Muscle layer damage occurred in two patients (11.11%) in the 5-min group and in no patients in the other two groups.

CONCLUSION

Three minutes was considered a safe and effective dilation duration for benign esophageal strictures after esophageal surgery or endoscopic submucosal dissection.

Effect of anastomotic leaks on long-term survival after oesophagectomy for oesophageal cancer: systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Long-term survival after curative surgery for oesophageal cancer surgery remains poor, and the prognostic impact of anastomotic leak (AL) remains unknown. A meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the impact of AL on long-term survival.

METHODS

A systematic electronic search for articles was performed for studies published between 2001 and 2020 evaluating the long-term oncological impact of AL. Meta-analysis was performed using the DerSimonian-Laird random-effects model to compute hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

Nineteen studies met the inclusion criteria, yielding a total of 9885 patients. Long-term survival was significantly reduced after AL (HR: 1.79, 95% CI: 1.33-2.43). AL was associated with significantly reduced overall survival in studies within hospital volume Quintile 1 (HR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.12-1.63) and Quintile 2 (HR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.35-2.47). However, no significant association was found for studies within Quintile 3 (HR: 2.24, 95% CI: 0.85-5.88), Quintile 4 (HR: 2.59, 95% CI: 0.67-10.07), and Quintile 5 (HR: 1.29, 95% CI: 0.92-1.81). AL was significantly associated with poor long-term survival in patients with associated overall Clavien Dindo Grades 1-5 (HR: 2.17, 95% CI: 1.31-3.59) and severe Clavien Dindo Grades 3-5 (HR: 1.42, 95% CI: 1.14-1.78) complications.

CONCLUSIONS

AL has a negative prognostic impact on long-term survival after restorative resection of oesophageal cancers, particularly in low-volume centers. Future efforts must be focused on strategies to minimize the septic and immunological response to AL with early recognition and treatment thus reducing the impact on long-term survival.

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.

The assessment of intraoperative technique-related risk factors and the treatment of anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy: a narrative review

Anastomotic leakage, including cervical anastomotic leakage and intrathoracic anastomotic leakage, is a serious complication of esophageal cancer and a leading cause of death after esophagectomy. In fact, anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy can be caused by numerous factors in the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative periods. Intraoperative technique-related risk factors, including surgical methods, anastomosis sites, anastomosis methods, the type of gastric tube, and reconstruction routes, are the key causes of its occurrence. Anastomotic leakage treatments include both surgical and non-surgical treatments, while surgical treatment has high risks, many complications, and high mortality. Actually, non-surgical methods including naso-leakage drainage, stent, negative pressure therapy, and so on, are also very critical in the treatment of anastomotic leakage. So, the selection of correct and appropriate treatment methods plays an important role in alleviating the suffering of patients, shortening hospitalization time, and reducing mortality. This study undertook a systematic review in which data in the PubMed database were searched and analyzed to assess the safety and efficacy of surgical technique-related factors in esophagectomy, and appropriate treatment of anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy. In conclusion, gastric tube, posterior mediastinal route and stapled anastomosis are safe among esophagectomy surgical techniques, and non-surgical treatment of anastomotic leakage such as naso-leakage drainage is feasible in the majority of cases.

Anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy for esophageal cancer: definitions, diagnostics, and treatment

Anastomotic leakage is one of the most severe complications after esophagectomy and is associated with increased postoperative morbidity and mortality. Several projects ranging from small retrospective studies to large collaborations have aimed to identify potential pre- and perioperative risk factors and to improve the diagnostic processes and management. Despite the increase in available literature, many aspects of anastomotic leakage are still debated, without the existence of widely accepted guidelines. The purpose of this review is to provide a cutting edge overview of the recent literature regarding the definition and classification of anastomotic leakage, risk factors, novel diagnostic modalities, and emerging therapeutic options for treatment and prevention of anastomotic leakage following esophagectomy.

The Predictive Value of Inflammatory Biomarkers in Esophageal Anastomotic Leaks

BACKGROUND

This study investigated the role of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in predicting anastomotic leak (AL) after esophagectomy for esophageal adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database from the McGill University Health Center. Included were all patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma who underwent esophagectomy between 2005 and 2016. Patients with chronic infections, concurrent active malignancies, and autoimmune conditions were excluded. NLR values were obtained on postoperative days (POD) 0, 1, 2, and 3. Receiver operating characteristic curve study and multivariable logistic analysis were conducted to evaluate the diagnostic value of NLR.

RESULTS

The study included 330 patients, and AL developed in 16%. Mean NLR values on POD1, 2, and 3 were higher in patients with leaks (20 vs 14 on POD1, P < .001; 20 vs 12 on POD2, P < .001; and 19 vs 10 on POD3, P < .001). The NLR value on POD3 was associated with an area under the curve of 70% and a negative predictive value of 92.4%. Multivariable analyses identified higher American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status Classification, increasing NLR trend (between POD1 and POD3), POD1 NLR, POD2 NLR, and POD3 NLR as independent factors associated with AL.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who developed AL demonstrate higher mean NLR values in the early postoperative period with rising trends. Conversely a low NLR is associated with a high negative predictive value for AL. This simple metric allows risk stratification that may guide treatment decisions in esophagectomy patients.

Technical details of the hand-sewn and circular-stapled anastomosis in robot-assisted minimally invasive esophagectomy

The circular mechanical and hand-sewn intrathoracic anastomosis are most often used in robot-assisted minimally invasive esophagectomy (RAMIE). The aim of this study was to describe the technical details of both techniques that were pioneered in two high volume centers for RAMIE. A prospectively maintained database was used to identify patients with esophageal cancer who underwent RAMIE with intrathoracic anastomosis. The primary outcome was anastomotic leakage, which was analyzed using a moving average curve. For the hand-sewn anastomosis, video recordings were reviewed to evaluate number of sutures and distances between the anastomosis and the longitudinal staple line or gastric conduit tip. Between 2016 and 2019, a total of 68 patients with a hand-sewn anastomosis and 60 patients with a circular-stapled anastomosis were included in the study. For the hand-sewn anastomosis, the moving average curve for anastomotic leakage (including grade 1-3) started at a rate of 40% (cases 1-10) and ended at 10% (cases 59-68). For the circular-stapled anastomosis, the moving average started at 10% (cases 1-10) and ended at 20% (cases 51-60). This study showed the technical details and refinements that were applied in developing two different anastomotic techniques for RAMIE. Results markedly improved during the period of development with specific changes in technique for the hand-sewn anastomosis. The circular-stapled anastomosis showed a more stable rate of performance.

A nomogram illustrating the probability of anastomotic leakage following cervical esophagogastrostomy

BACKGROUND

Early diagnosis of anastomotic dehiscence following cervical esophagogastrostomy may become difficult. Estimation of an individual probability could help to establish preventive and diagnostic measures. The predictive impact of epidemiological, surgery-related data and laboratory parameters on the development of anastomotic dehiscence was investigated in the immediate perioperative period.

METHODS

Retrospective study in 412 patients with cervical esophagogastrostomy following esophagectomy. Epidemiological data, risk factors, underlying disease, pre-treatment- and surgery-related data, C-reactive protein and albumin levels pre-and post-operatively were evaluated. We applied univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis and developed a nomogram for individual risk assessment.

RESULTS

There were 345 male, 67 female patients, mean aged 61.5 years; 284 had orthotopic, 128 retrosternal gastric pull-up; 331 patients had carcinoma, 81 non-malignant disease. Mean duration of operation was 184 min; 235 patients had manual, 113 mechanical and 64 semi-mechanical suturing; 76 patients (18.5%) developed anastomotic dehiscence clinically evident at mean 11.4 days after surgery. In univariable testing young age, retrosternal conduit transposition, manual suturing, high body mass index, high ASA and high postoperative levels of C-reactive protein were predictors for anastomotic leakage. These six parameters which had yielded a p < 0.1 in the univariable analysis, were entered into a multivariable analysis and a nomogram allowing the determination of the patient's individual risk was created.

CONCLUSION

By using the nomogram as a supportive measure in the perioperative management, the patient's individual probability of developing an anastomotic leak could be quantified which may help to take preventive measures improving the outcome.

Esophageal cancer surgery: review of complications and their management

Esophagectomy, even with the progress in surgical technique and perioperative management, is a highly specialized surgery, associated with a high rate of complications. Early recognition and adequate treatment should be a standard of care for the most common postoperative complications: anastomotic leakage, pneumonia, atrial fibrillation, chylothorax, and recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy. Recent progress in endoscopy with vacuum and stent placement, or in radiology with embolization, has changed the management of these complications. The success of nonoperative treatments should be frequently reassessed and reoperation must be proposed in case of failure. We have summarized the clinical signs, diagnostic process, and management of the frequent complications after esophagectomy for esophageal cancer.

Modified Collard versus end-to-side hand-sewn anastomosis for cervical anastomosis after McKeown esophagectomy

Background

According to previously published studies, esophagectomy with modified Collard anastomosis has been reported to have low incidences of anastomotic leak and stricture. However, the optional anastomotic method after esophagectomy is still controversial. We conducted this study to compare the incidence of postoperative anastomotic stricture formation and dysphagia over three years after an esophagectomy with modified Collard anastomosis (MC) or end‐to‐side (ETS) hand‐sewn anastomosis. Meanwhile, the early postoperative anastomotic leakage and other complications, hospital stay and 30‐ and 90‐day mortality were also evaluated.

Methods

The clinical data of 905 patients undergoing McKeown esophagectomy were retrospectively reviewed. The rate of postoperative stricture formation after three years was demonstrated by stricture‐free survival which is the primary end‐point of this study. The incidence of dysphagia, first time of onset of stricture and number of dilatations were also recorded during follow‐up.

Results

The incidence of anastomotic leak tended to be higher in the MC group compared with that in the ETS group (13.0% vs. 8.7%, P = 0.064). The rates of anastomotic stricture in the MC group were significantly less than in the ETS group (P = 0.004). The number of dilatations in the MC group were significantly greater than those in the ETS group (2.34 vs. 2.46, P = 0.011).

Conclusions

A modified Collard cervical esophagogastric anastomosis was associated with lower rates of anastomotic stricture and dysphagia, compared with ETS hand‐sewn anastomosis. However, the modified Collard anastomosis is accompanied by an increased anastomotic leakage rate.

Semimechanical anastomosis during oesophagectomy reduces leaks and stenosis: a propensity score matched analysis

OBJECTIVES

Several techniques for oesophageal anastomosis during oesophagectomy have been described, all of which are associated with variable leakage and stricture rates. Given the notable morbidity of oesophageal fistula, reducing its incidence is of paramount importance. We report our single-centre experience with the semimechanical (SM) technique as compared to a totally manual (TM) technique.

METHODS

Three hundred and twelve partial and subtotal oesophagectomies performed between January 1998 and April 2018 were analysed. The series was split into a training period (January 1998-September 2015), when both TM and SM techniques were used, and a validation period (October 2015-April 2018), during which SM technique became standard practice. Propensity score matching was used to reduce confounding.

RESULTS

The training period included 212 oesophagectomies (90 TM, 122 SM); SM technique was initially used in the neck and afterwards also in the thorax, mainly with gastric conduits (92%), whereas the TM group contained a prevalence of jejunal loops (48%). SM anastomosis was associated with a significant reduction in both leak (0.8% vs 12%; P < 0.001) and stricture rate (0% vs 7%; P = 0.005). After propensity score matching, the difference in leak (0% vs 14%; P = 0.013) and stricture rate (0% vs 10%; P = 0.022) was confirmed. During the validation period, which included 100 oesophagectomies performed with SM anastomosis, 1 leak (1%) and 1 stricture (1%) were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

SM technique for oesophageal anastomosis outperforms TM technique and allows achieving very low complication rates.

Comparison of end-to-side hand-sewn and side-to-side stapled cervical esophagogastric anastomosis in patients with lower thoracic esophageal cancer undergoing transhiatal esophagectomy: an Iranian retrospective cohort study

Background

Controversies in terms of efficacy and postoperative advantages surround stapled esophagogastric anastomosis compared with the hand-sewn technique as a treatment for patients with esophageal cancer. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of hand-sewn end-to-side esophago-gastrostomy and side-to-side stapled cervical esophagogastric anastomosis after esophagectomy for the aforementioned patients.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study involved examining the medical records of 433 patients who underwent transhiatal esophagectomy for esophageal cancer from March 2010 to March 2016. All the patients were operated using end-to-side hand-sewn esophago-gastrostomy and side-to-side stapled cervical esophagogastric anastomosis. 409 of the patients received a year’s worth of follow-up evaluations. All the cases were revisited in 2 weeks as well as in four, eight, and 12 months after surgery. The patients were assessed in terms of postoperative outcomes, including reflux symptoms, anastomotic leakage and stricture, and the need for anastomotic dilatation.

Results

Hand-sewn anastomosis was carried out in 271 (62.5%) patients, whereas stapled anastomosis was performed in 162 (37.4%) patients. The mean operative times were 214.46 ± 84.33 min and 250.55 ± 43.31 min for the stapled and hand-sewn anastomosis groups, respectively (P = 0.028). The two groups showed no significant differences with respect to stays in intensive care units and hospitals. Postoperatively, 38 (14.67%) cases of anastomotic leakage were detected in the hand-sewn anastomosis group, with incidence being significantly higher than that in the stapled anastomosis group (8 cases or 5.33%; P = 0.002). Anastomotic stricture occurred less frequently in the patients who underwent stapled anastomosis (P = 0.004). Within the one-year follow-up period, the patients treated via hand-sewn anastomosis more frequently required anastomotic dilatation (P = 0.02).

Conclusion

Side-to-side stapled cervical esophagogastric anastomosis may reduce operation times and decrease the rates of anastomotic leakage, anastomotic stricture, and anastomotic dilatation in patients with lower thoracic esophageal cancer undergoing transhiatal esophagectomy.

Strategies to prevent anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy and gastric conduit reconstruction

Background

Surgery remains the cornerstone of esophageal cancer treatment but is burdened with high procedure-related morbidity. Anastomotic leakage as the most important surgical complication after esophagectomy is a key indicator for quality in surgical outcome research.

Purpose

The aim of this narrative review is to assess and summarize the current knowledge on prevention of anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy and to provide orientation for the reader in this challenging field of surgery.

Conclusions

There are various strategies to reduce postoperative morbidity and to prevent anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy, including adequate patient selection and preparation, and many technical-surgical and anesthesiological details. The scientific evidence regarding those strategies is highly heterogeneous, ranging from expert’s recommendations to randomized controlled trials. This review is intended to serve as an empirical guideline to improve the clinical management of patients undergoing esophagectomy with a special focus on anastomotic leakage prevention.

Anastomotic techniques for oesophagectomy for malignancy: systematic review and network meta-analysis

Background

Current evidence on the benefits of different anastomotic techniques (hand‐sewn (HS), circular stapled (CS), triangulating stapled (TS) or linear stapled/semimechanical (LSSM) techniques) after oesophagectomy is conflicting. The aim of this study was to evaluate the evidence for the techniques for oesophagogastric anastomosis and their impact on perioperative outcomes.

Methods

This was a systematic review and network meta‐analysis. PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library databases were searched systematically for randomized and non‐randomized studies reporting techniques for the oesophagogastric anastomosis. Network meta‐analysis of postoperative anastomotic leaks and strictures was performed.

Results

Of 4192 articles screened, 15 randomized and 22 non‐randomized studies comprising 8618 patients were included. LSSM (odds ratio (OR) 0·50, 95 per cent c.i. 0·33 to 0·74; P = 0·001) and CS (OR 0·68, 0·48 to 0·95; P = 0·027) anastomoses were associated with lower anastomotic leak rates than HS anastomoses. LSSM anastomoses were associated with lower stricture rates than HS anastomoses (OR 0·32, 0·19 to 0·54; P < 0·001).

Conclusion

LSSM anastomoses after oesophagectomy are superior with regard to anastomotic leak and stricture rates.

Meta-Analysis of Two Different Methods for Cervical Esophagogastric Anastomosis: Triangulating Versus Circular Stapling

Background: The standard treatment for esophageal carcinoma is extensive resection of the tumor and esophagogastric anastomosis despite the high incidence of related anastomotic complications, such as stricture and leakage. Thus, the choice of the cervical esophagogastric anastomotic method-triangulating stapling (TS) versus circular stapling (CS)-is a critical decision for the surgeon. Aim: To compare the incidence of major adverse outcomes between TS and CS in patients with resectable thoracic esophageal cancer. Methods: For this meta-analysis, PubMed, Embase, Wiley Online Library, Google Scholar, Wanfang, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases were searched for subject-relevant studies by using a rigorous study protocol established according to the recommendations of the Cochrane Handbook. Anastomotic leakage, anastomotic stricture, and postoperative pulmonary complications were the primary endpoints used for comparison. Relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated to assess the strength of association. Results: Six studies were selected by our inclusion/exclusion criteria and represented a total of 739 patients in our meta-analysis of TS (n = 376) versus CS (n = 363). The TS group showed a lower incidence of anastomotic stricture (RR: 0.23 [95% CI: 0.08-0.63]; P = .004) and pulmonary complications (RR: 0.57 [95% CI: 0.37-0.87]; P = .01). However, the incidence of anastomotic leakage was similar for the two groups (RR: 0.66 [95% CI: 0.41-1.09]; P = .1). Subgroup analysis of four studies in which the surgical methods were minimally invasive demonstrated the TS group to have a lower incidence of lung complications (RR: 0.55 [95% CI: 0.35-0.87]; P = .01), anastomotic leakage (RR: 0.36 [95% CI: 0.18-0.74]; P = .005), and anastomotic stricture (RR: 0.23 [95% CI: 0.05-0.98]; P = .05). Conclusion: The TS method for cervical esophagogastric anastomosis after esophagectomy had a lower incidence of anastomotic stricture and postoperative lung complications.

Esophagus and Gastrointestinal Junction Tumors

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma account for 95% of all esophageal malignancies. The rates of esophageal adenocarcinoma have increased in Western countries, making it the predominant type of esophageal cancer. Treatment of both types of cancer has transformed to a more minimally invasive approach, with endoscopic methods being used for superficial cancers and more frequent use of video-assisted and laparoscopic modalities for locally advanced tumors. The current National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines advocate a trimodal approach to treatment, with neoadjuvant chemoradiation and surgery for locally advanced cancers.

Pre-embedded cervical circular stapled anastomosis in esophagectomy

Background

Mechanical anastomosis is now widely used in surgery for esophageal cancer. An anastomotic fistula is still the most dangerous complication in mechanical anastomosis, especially for patients who undergo cervical anastomosis. However, due to the high anastomosis position and limited space, conventional embedding and suspension are rarely performed. This study aimed to introduce the steps of an improved embedded method in cervical circular stapled anastomosis and evaluate its efficacy in reducing complications.

Methods

In total, 31 patients who underwent minimally invasive esophagectomy were enrolled into the study. Pre‐embedded cervical esophagogastrostomy with a circular stapler was adopted after thoracoscopic and laparoscopic esophagectomy for esophageal cancer.

Results

The results of surgical duration, blood loss, mean duration of hospitalization and operation complications such as anastomotic fistula, anastomotic stenosis and gastroesophageal reflux were recorded. The operative procedure lasted between 205–300 minutes with an average of 260.3 minutes. The postoperative recovery was good, with no complications such as anastomotic fistula, anastomotic stricture and pulmonary complication, except for two cases of gastroesophageal reflux. The postoperative hospital stay was 8–14 days with an average of 10.3 days.

Conclusion

Our data revealed that pre‐embedded cervical circular stapled anastomosis is an alternative for patients with good stomach length, which can decrease the occurrence rate of anastomotic fistula by full peripheral embedding of anastomotic stoma.

Key points

This new technique can significantly reduce the risk of anastomotic leakage.

This study adds further details enabling a smooth pre‐embedded procedure to be performed.

Totally mechanical linear stapled anastomosis for minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy: Operative technique and short-term outcomes

BACKGROUND

Anastomosis is one of the important factors affecting anastomotic complications after esophagectomy, and multiple reports have compared anastomotic complications among various techniques. However, there is insufficient evidence in the literature to definitively recommend one anastomotic technique over another.

METHOD

We retrospectively evaluated 34 consecutive patients who underwent an improved totally mechanical side-to-side: posterior-to-posterior linear stapled (TM-STS) technique for minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagogastric anastomosis, performed by a single surgeon between February 2015 to November 2017. The operative techniques and short-term outcomes are analyzed in this study.

RESULTS

There were no conversions to an open approach and a complete resection was achieved in all patients undergoing this improved procedure. During the first half of the series, the median operation time was 355 minutes, ranging from 257 to 480 minutes. Over the second half of this series, the median operation time was reduced to 256 minutes. There were no mortalities or serious postoperative complications. Only one patient (2.9%) had an anastomotic leak, which resolved without intervention. Another patient (2.9%) experienced transient, delayed conduit emptying which upper gastrointestinal radiography determined was due to a mechanical obstruction caused by an abnormally long gastric tube in the chest cavity.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our study suggest that this improved TM-STS technique is safe and effective for minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy, and can be considered as one of the alternative procedure for patients with lower esophageal as well as Siewert types I/II gastroesophageal junction carcinoma.

Study protocol for a multicenter prospective cohort study on esophagogastric anastomoses and anastomotic leak (the Oesophago-Gastric Anastomosis Audit/OGAA)

Esophagectomy is a mainstay in curative treatment for esophageal cancer; however, the reported techniques and outcomes can vary greatly. Thirty-day mortality of patients with an intact anastomosis is 2-3% as compared to 17-35% in patients who have an anastomotic leak. The subsequent management of leaks postesophagectomy has great global variability with little consensus on a gold standard of practice. The aim of this multicentre prospective audit is to analyze current techniques of esophagogastric anastomosis to determine the effect on the anastomotic leak rate. Leak rates and leak management will be assessed to determine their impact on patient outcomes. A 12-month international multicentre prospective audit started in April 2018 and is coordinated by a team from the West Midlands Research Collaborative. This will include patients undergoing esophagectomy over 9 months and encompassing a 90-day follow-up period. A pilot data collection period occurred at four UK centers in 2017 to trial the data collection form. The audit standards will include anastomotic leak and the conduit necrosis rate should be less than 13% and major postoperative morbidity (Clavien-Dindo Grade III or more) should be less than 35%. The 30-day mortality rate should be less than 5% and the 90-day mortality rate should be less than 8%. This will be a trainee-led international audit of esophagectomy practice. Key support will be given by consultant colleagues and anesthetists. Individualized unit data will be distributed to the respective contributing sites. An overall anonymized report will be made available to contributing units. Results of the audit will be published in peer-reviewed journals with all collaborators fully acknowledged. The key information and results from the audit will be disseminated at relevant scientific meetings.

21- versus 25-mm Circular Staplers for Cervical Anastomosis: A Propensity-Matched Study

BACKGROUND

The use of a small circular stapler (CS) has been reported to increase the incidence of benign anastomotic stricture of the intrathoracic anastomosis after esophagectomy, but no study has evaluated the effects of the CS size on cervical esophagogastrostomy. Based on a propensity-matched comparison, the present study was designed to determine whether the perioperative outcomes differ between 21- and 25-mm CSs after minimally invasive esophagectomy with cervical anastomosis.

METHODS

From January 2015 to December 2017, 162 patients who received CS cervical esophagogastric anastomosis after minimally invasive esophagectomy for esophageal cancer were identified from our surgical database. A propensity-matched analysis was used to compare the outcomes between the 21- and 25-mm CS groups. Endpoints included anastomotic leak, dysphagia, reflux, stricture, and other major postoperative outcomes within 6 postoperative months.

RESULTS

There were 69 and 93 patients in the 21- and 25-mm CS groups, respectively. Propensity matching produced 57 patients in each group. The two groups were not remarkably different in benign anastomotic stricture rate (P = 0.528). All strictures were resolved by balloon dilatation. The 25-mm CS group had a significantly longer operative time in cervical anastomosis than the 21-mm group (P = 0.005). No statistically significant differences in anastomotic leak rates, dysphagia scores, reflux scores, or other postoperative complications were noted between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a 21-mm CS in minimally invasive esophagectomy with cervical esophagogastric anastomosis did not result in greater anastomotic stricture as compared with a 25-mm CS. The 21-mm CS was associated with a significantly shorter operative time.

[Short-term outcomes of surgical treatment of gastroesophageal junction cancer]

OBJECTIVE

To confirm simplicity, safety and efficacy of stapling devices for gastroesophageal anastomosis (including those formed in mediastinum) in the treatment of gastroesophageal junction cancer.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

There were 147 patients with cardioesophageal cancer. Tumors Siewert type II and III were predominant (44.2 and 40.3%, respectively). Simultaneous procedures were performed in 30.6% of cases.

RESULTS

Postoperative complication rate was 42.2%. Pneumonia was the most common. Postoperative mortality was 2.7%.