Adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction: surgical therapy based on 1602 consecutive resected patients

Contemporary outcomes for resected type 1-3 gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma: a single-center experience

BACKGROUND

Surgical resection remains the mainstay of treatment for tumors of the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ). However, contemporary analyses of the Western experience for GEJ adenocarcinoma are sparsely reported.

METHODS

Patients with GEJ adenocarcinoma undergoing resection between 2012 and 2022 at a single institution were grouped based on Siewert subtype and analyzed. Pathologic and treatment related variables were assessed with relation to outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 302 patients underwent resection: 161 (53.3%) with type I, 116 (38.4%) with type II, and 25 (8.3%) with type III tumors. Most patients received neoadjuvant therapy (86.4%); 86% of cases were performed in a minimally invasive fashion. Anastomotic leak occurred in 6.0% and 30-day mortality in only 0.7%. The rate of grade 3+ morbidity was lower for the last 5 years of the study than for the first 5 years (27.5% vs 49.3%, P < .001), as was median length of stay (7 vs 8 days, P < .001). There was a significantly greater number of signet ring type tumors among type III tumors (44.0%) than type I/II tumors (11.2/12.9%, P < .001). Otherwise, there was no difference in the distribution of pathologic features among Siewert subtypes. Notably, there was a significant difference in 3-year overall survival based on Siewert classification: type I 60.0%, type II 77.2%, and type III 86.3% (P = .011). Siewert type I remained independently associated with worse survival on multivariable analysis (hazard ratio, 4.5; P = .023).

CONCLUSIONS

In this large, single-institutional series, operative outcomes for patients with resected GEJ adenocarcinoma improved over time. On multivariable analysis, type I tumors were an independent predictor of poor survival.

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

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

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.

Extension of lymph node dissection in the surgical treatment of esophageal and gastroesophageal junction cancer: seven questions and answers

The role of two- or three-field nodal dissection in the surgical treatment of esophageal and gastroesophageal junction cancer in the minimally invasive era is still controversial. This review aims to clarify the extension of nodal dissection in esophageal and gastroesophageal junctional cancer. A basic evidence-based analysis was designed, and seven research questions were formulated and answered with a narrative review. Reports with little or no data, single cases, small series and review articles were not included. Three-field lymph node dissection improves staging accuracy, enhances locoregional disease control and might improve survival in the group of patients with cervical and upper mediastinal metastatic lymph nodal involvement from middle and proximal-third esophageal cancer.

Adjuvant Chemotherapy for Patients with Adenocarcinoma of the Esophagogastric Junction: A Retrospective, Multicenter, Observational Study

BACKGROUND

Although the incidence of adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG) has been increasing since the past decade, the proportion of AEG cases in two previous clinical trials (ACTS-GC and CLASSIC) that investigated the efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy was relatively small. Therefore, whether AEG patients can benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy remains unclear.

METHODS

Patients who were diagnosed with pathological stage II/III, Siewert II/III AEG, and underwent curative surgery at three high-volume institutions were assessed. Clinical outcomes were analyzed by using Kaplan-Meier curves, log-rank test, and Cox regression model. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to reduce the selection bias.

RESULTS

A total of 927 patients were included (the chemotherapy group: 696 patients; the surgery-only group: 231 patients). The median follow-up was 39.0 months. The 5-year overall survival was 63.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 59.0-67.6%) for the chemotherapy group and 50.2% in the surgery-only group (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.54-0.88; p = 0.003). The 5-year, disease-free survival was 35.4% for the chemotherapy group and 16.6% for the surgery-only group (HR = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.53-0.83; p < 0.001). After PSM, the survival benefit of adjuvant chemotherapy for AEG was maintained. Multivariate analysis for overall survival and disease-free survival further demonstrated the survival benefit of adjuvant chemotherapy, with HRs of 0.63 (p < 0.001) and 0.52 (p < 0.001), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy was associated with improved overall survival and disease-free survival in patients with operable stage II or III AEG after D2 gastrectomy.

Mapping of lymph node dissection determined by the epicenter location and tumor extension for esophagogastric junction carcinoma

Backgrounds

Previous studies identified the extent of lymph node dissection for esophagogastric junction (EGJ) carcinoma based on the metastatic incidence. The study aimed to determine the optimal extent and priority of lymphadenectomy based on the therapeutic efficacy from each station.

Methods

The studies on the lymph node metastasis (LNM) and therapeutic efficacy index (EI) for EGJ carcinomas were identified until April 2022. The obligatory stations with the LNM rates over 5% and therapeutic EI exceeding 2% should be routinely resected for D2 dissection, whereas the optional stations with EI between 0.5% and 2% should be resected for D3 dissection in selective cases.

Results

The survey yielded 16 eligible articles including 6,350 patients with EGJ carcinoma. The metastatic rates exceeded 5% at no. 1, 2, 3, 7, 9, 11p, and 110 stations and were less than 5% in abdominal no. 4sa~6, 8a, 10, 11d, 12a, and 16a2/b1 and mediastinal no. 105~112 stations. Consequently, obligatory stations with EI over 2% were largely determined by the epicenter location and located at the upper perigastric, lower mediastinal, and suprapancreatic zones, corresponding to those with rates of LNM over 5%. Consistent with the LNM rates less than 5%, the optional stations with EI between 0.5% and 2% were largely dependent on the degree of tumor extension toward the lower perigastric, splenic hilar (grecurvature), para-aortic (less curvature of the cardia), and middle or upper mediastinal zones.

Conclusions

The obligatory stations can be resected as an “envelope-like” wrap by transhiatal proximal gastrectomy with lower esophagectomy, whereas the optional stations for dissection are indicated by the tumor extension. The extended gastrectomy is required for the lower perigastric in the stomach-predominant tumor with gastric involvement exceeding 5.0 cm, para-aortic dissection in the less curvature-predominant tumor and splenic hilar dissection in the grecurvature-predominant tumor whereas transthoracic subtotal esophagectomy is required for complete mediastinal dissection and adequate negative margin in the esophagus-predominant tumor with esophageal invasion exceeding 3.0 cm.

Lymph node involvement in gastric adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic management of early gastric cancer is limited by the risk of lymph node metastasis. We aimed to examine the incidence and predictors of nodal metastasis in early gastric adenocarcinoma in a large national US cohort.

METHODS

Cases were abstracted from the National Cancer Database from 2004 to 2016. The incidence and predictors of lymph node involvement for patients with Tis, T1a, and T1b tumors were examined.

RESULTS

A total of 202,216 cases of gastric adenocarcinoma were identified in the NCDB. Cases with unknown patient or tumor characteristics, presence of other cancers, and prior neoadjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy were excluded. 1839 cases of Tis, T1a, and T1b tumors were identified. Lymph node metastases were present in 18.1% of patients. Lymphovascular invasion (LVI), high-grade histology, stage T1b, and larger size (> 3 cm) were independently associated with an increased risk of nodal metastasis on multivariate analysis (P < 0.05). The presence of LVI was the strongest predictor of nodal metastasis with an OR (95% CI) of 5.7 (4.3-7.6), P < 0.001. No lymph node metastasis was found in any Tis tumors. Small T1a low-grade tumors with no LVI had a low risk of nodal metastasis (0.6% < 2 cm and 0.9% < 3 cm).

CONCLUSION

In this large national cohort, size, lymphovascular invasion, higher grade histology, and T stage were independently associated with lymph node metastasis. For patients with low-grade tumors, < 3 cm, without lymphovascular invasion, the risk of nodal involvement was very low, suggesting that this Western cohort could be considered for endoscopic resection.

Optimal surgery for esophagogastric junctional cancer

Esophagogastric junctional cancer is classified into three categories according to the Siewert classification, which reflects the epidemiological and biological characteristics. Therapeutic strategies have been evaluated according to the three Siewert types. There is a consensus that types I and III should be treated as esophageal cancer and gastric cancer, respectively. On the other hand, type II is often described as true cardiac cancer, which has different clinicopathological features from the other types. Thus, there is no consensus on the surgical management of type II esophagogastric junctional cancer. The optimal surgical management should focus on the principles of cancer surgery, which take into consideration oncological curability, including an appropriate resection margin, adequate lymphadenectomy, and minimization of postoperative complications. In this review, we evaluate the current relevant literature and evidence, on the surgical treatment of esophagogastric junctional cancer, focusing on type II. Esophagectomy with a thoracic approach has the advantage of ensuring a sufficient proximal resection margin and adequate mediastinal lymphadenectomy. However, the oncological benefit is offset by a high incidence of postoperative complications. Minimally invasive esophagectomy could be a possible solution to reduce complications and improve long-term outcomes. Further development of surgical treatments for Siewert type II is required to improve the outcomes. Furthermore, the surgical team should have expertise in both gastric cancer and esophageal cancer treatment, or patients should be managed with close collaboration between thoracic surgeons and gastric cancer surgeons.

Esophagectomy or Total Gastrectomy for Siewert 2 Gastroesophageal Junction (GEJ) Adenocarcinoma? A Registry-Based Analysis

Backgrounds

Due to a lack of randomized and large studies, the optimal surgical approach for Siewert 2 gastroesophageal junctional (GEJ) adenocarcinoma remains unknown. This population-based cohort study aimed to compare survival between esophagectomy and total gastrectomy for the treatment of Siewert 2 GEJ adenocarcinoma.

Methods

Data from the National Cancer Database (NCDB) from 2010 to 2016 was used to identify patients with non-metastatic Siewert 2 GEJ adenocarcinoma who received either esophagectomy (n = 999) or total gastrectomy (n = 8595). Propensity score-matching (PSM) and multivariable analyses were used to account for treatment selection bias.

Results

Comparison of the unmatched cohort’s baseline demographics showed that the patients who received esophagectomy were younger, had a lower burden of medical comorbidities, and had fewer clinical positive lymph nodes. The patients in the unmatched cohort who received gastrectomy had a significantly shorter overall survival than those who received esophagectomy (median, 47 vs. 68 months [p < 0.001]; 5-year survival, 45 % vs. 53 %). After matching, gastrectomy was associated with significantly reduced survival compared with esophagectomy (median, 51 vs. 68 months [p < 0.001]; 5-year survival, 47 % vs. 53 %), which remained in the adjusted analyses (hazard ratio [HR], 1.22; 95 % confidence interval [CI], 1.09–1.35; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

In this large-scale population study with propensity-matching to adjust for confounders, esophagectomy was prognostically superior to gastrectomy for the treatment of Siewert 2 GEJ adenocarcinoma despite comparable lymph node harvest, length of stay, and 90-day mortality. Adequately powered randomized controlled trials with robust surgical quality assurance are the next step in evaluating the prognostic outcomes of these surgical strategies for GEJ cancer.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1245/s10434-021-10346-x.

Total laparoscopic transabdominal-transdiaphragmatic approach for treating Siewert II tumors: a prospective analysis of a case series

Background

Although the morbidity of gastric cancer has decreased, the incidence of adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG) is increasing. Furthermore, no consensus exists on which surgical approach should be applied for Siewert type II AEG. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the technical safety and feasibility of a new surgical approach.

Methods

Sixty patients with Siewert type II AEG underwent laparoscopic total gastrectomy with the total laparoscopic transabdominal-transdiaphragmatic (TLTT) approach, which needs an incision in the diaphragm.

Results

The median operative time, reconstruction time, and estimated blood loss were 214.8 ± 41.6 min, 29.40 ± 7.1 min, and 209.0 ± 110.3 ml, respectively. All of the patients had negative surgical margins.

Conclusion

There were no intraoperative complications or conversions to open surgery. Our surgical procedure provides a unique option for the safe application of laparoscopic lower mediastinal lymph node dissection and gastrointestinal reconstruction.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1800014336. Registered on 31 December 2017 - Prospectively registered, http://www.chictr.org.cn/edit.aspx?pid=23111&htm=4.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12957-021-02136-2.

HN1L promotes invasion and metastasis of the esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma

Background

Adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG) refers to cancer that crosses the line of the gastroesophageal junction and includes distal esophageal cancer and proximal gastric cancer. It is characterized by early metastasis and a poor prognosis and has few treatment options. Here, we report a novel potential therapeutic target, hematological and neurological expressed 1‐like (HN1L), in AEG.

Methods

A total of 38 patients who underwent surgical resection of AEG at the Department of Thoracic Surgery of Shandong Provincial Hospital from September 2018 to June 2019 were enrolled into the study. We detected the expression of HN1L in AEG and adjacent nontumor tissues by IHC staining. The clinicopathological characteristics of HN1L were statistically analyzed. Then, the expression of HN1L in different cell lines was detected by RT‐q PCR. Finally, AGS and HGC‐27 cell lines were performed to inhibit HN1L by shRNA in order to explore its role in the development of AEG.

Results

Immunohistochemical staining showed that the expression of HN1L in cancer tissues was higher than that in nontumor tissue (p < 0.001). High expression of HN1L was significantly correlated with TNM stage (p = 0.013) and lymph node metastasis (p = 0.03). The expression of HN1L was upregulated in tumor cell lines compared with normal cell line. Additionally, Cell function studies demonstrated that lentivirus‐mediated shRNA silencing of HN1L expression could effectively reduce the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of tumor cell lines and promote their apoptosis (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

HN1L expression might contribute to the invasion and metastasis of AEG and is a promising therapeutic target.

Two updates on oesophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma from the fifth WHO classification: Alteration of definition and emphasis on HER2 test

INTRODUCTION

The incidence of oesophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma has increased rapidly but remains controversial over the last decades. There are two crucial updates of the fifth World Health Organization (WHO) classification, including the alteration of its definition and the emphasis on the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) test.

METHODS

A total of 566 clinicopathological samples from patients who were diagnosed with gastric adenocarcinoma were retrospectively analyzed. We comprehensively compared the clinicopathological features of oesophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma between the fourth (V4.0) and fifth (V5.0) WHO versions. The clinicalpathological features among oesophagogastric junction, proximal and distal gastric tumors with fourth and fifth edition were also compared, respectively. Also, we discuss the correlation of HER2-expression with clinicopathological features according to the V5.0.

RESULTS

The results showed that the difference was mainly between oesophagogastric junction and distal adenocarcinoma in V4.0, while some were found between proximal and distal adenocarcinoma in V5.0. Tumors invading the oesophagus more than 3cm were still mainly oesophagogastric junction tumors. The expression of HER2 in oesophagogastric junction and proximal gastric adenocarcinoma was still higher than that in gastric body and distal sites.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinicopathological parameters of the oesophagogastric junction tumors changed to some extent in the updated WHO version. The proximal gastric tumors tended to be more invasive, more than those located in oesophagogastric junction. But the latter with oesophageal invasion required additional management. The HER2-expression of oesophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma is the highest. The classification of V5.0 is reasonable and worth recommendation.

Transhiatal versus transthoracic surgical approach for Siewert type Ⅱ adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

With the increasing prevalence of Siewert type Ⅱ adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (EGJ), the optimal surgical treatment is not universally agreed. This meta-analysis compares the safety and efficacy between the transhiahtal (TH) approach and the transthoracic (TT) approach.

METHODS

A systematic and electronic search of several databases was performed up to June 2020. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale was used to evaluate article quality and funnel plots were created to identify potential publication bias. The random-effects model was used when significant heterogeneity was identified.

RESULTS

In total, nine retrospective studies and two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 2331 patients were included. Decreased intraoperative blood loss, shorter hospital stay, lower incidence of pulmonary complications, and longer 3-year overall survival were observed in the TH group. There were no significant differences concerning duration of surgery, R0 resection rate, number of dissected lymph nodes, perioperative mortality and morbidity rate, abdominal complication rate, or anastomotic leak rate. With regard to 5-year overall survival, a potential benefit may be achieved with the TH approach, which requires further confirmation.

CONCLUSION

In terms of surgery-related and long-term outcomes, the TH approach may be more appropriate for Siewert type Ⅱ adenocarcinoma of EGJ, especially for esophagus invasion ≤4 cm.

True esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma: background of its definition and current surgical trends

The definition of true esophagogastric junction (EGJ) adenocarcinoma and its surgical treatment are debatable. We review the basis for the current definition and the Japanese surgical strategy in managing true EGJ adenocarcinoma. The Siewert classification is a well-known anatomical classification system for EGJ adenocarcinomas: type II tumors in the region 1 cm above and 2 cm below the EGJ are described as "true carcinoma of the cardia". Coincidentally, this range matches gastric cardiac gland distribution. Conversely, Nishi's classification is generally used to describe EGJ carcinomas, defined as tumors with the center located within 2 cm above and 2 cm below the EGJ, regardless of their histological subtype. This range coincides with the extent of the lower esophageal sphincter combined with gastric cardiac gland distribution. The current Japanese surgical strategy focuses on the tumor range from the EGJ to the esophagus and stomach. According to previous studies, the strategy can be roughly classified into three types. The optimal surgical procedure for true EGJ adenocarcinoma is controversial. However, an ongoing Japanese nationwide prospective trial will help confirm the appropriate standard surgery, including the optimal extent of lymph node dissection.

Distribution of lymph node metastases in locally advanced adenocarcinomas of the esophagogastric junction (cT2-4): comparison between Siewert type I and selected Siewert type II tumors

INTRODUCTION

The distribution of lymph node metastases in locally advanced Siewert type I and type II AEG (adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction) remains unclear. The diversity of data in the literature reflects the non-uniformity of tumor stages and surgical procedures in previous studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Based on a retrospective analysis from our single-center database, we examined distributions of lymph node metastases in types I and II cT2-4 AEG. The dataset comprised 44 patients; 19 and 25 patients had type I and type II, respectively. All patients underwent subtotal esophagectomy and total mediastinal lymphadenectomy, which included dissection of the upper mediastinal lymph nodes. The histological data of the surgical specimens were analyzed to evaluate metastasis rates in each lymph node station according to the Japanese Esophageal Society (JES) and American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) guidelines.

RESULTS

Lymph node metastases were observed in 75.0% cases (n = 33/44). There was no significant difference in the total lymph node metastasis rate between the two groups (type I 73.7% versus type II 76.0%). On comparing each lymph node region separately, no statistically significant differences were noted between the groups: upper mediastinal (type I 31.6% versus type II 24.0%), middle and lower mediastinal (type I 31.6% versus type II 44.0%), paragastric (type I 61.1% versus type II 76.0%), and celiac lymph nodes (type I 16.7% versus type II 25.0%).

CONCLUSION

In advanced clinical stages, the metastasis rate is high at all mediastinal lymph node regions in both type I and type II AEGs.

Comparison of short-term outcomes following minimally invasive versus open Sweet esophagectomy for Siewert type II adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction

Background

Surgical resection is still the main treatment option for patients with resectable Siewert type II adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG). This retrospective study evaluated the significance of minimally invasive Sweet esophagectomy (MISE) for the treatment of Siewert type II AEG.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 174 patients with Siewert type II AEG who received a Sweet esophagectomy in our center between October 2013 and September 2017. Of these patients, 73 underwent MISE and 101 underwent open Sweet esophagectomy (OSE). The clinicopathologic factors, operational factors and postoperative complications were compared.

Results

The two groups were similar in terms of age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists grade, preoperative staging and incidence of comorbidities (P > 0.05). Relative to the OSE approach, the MISE approach was associated with a significant decrease in surgical blood loss (P < 0.001), chest tube duration (P = 0.003) and postoperative admission duration (P = 0.002). The minimally invasive approach was associated with significantly less total morbidity and fewer respiratory complications than the open approach (P = 0.015 and P = 0.016, respectively). Relative to the open approach, the MISE approach was associated with a significant increase in the number of total lymph nodes removed and the locations of the total lymph nodes removed (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

Our MISE technique can be safely and effectively performed for intrathoracic anastomosis with favorable early outcomes.

Perioperative outcomes and survival of octogenarians undergoing curative resection for esophagogastric adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Current data are conflicting as to whether the outcomes of octogenarians undergoing resection for esophagogastric adenocarcinoma are comparable to younger patients. This study aims to compare perioperative outcomes and survival of patients ≥80 years old with younger patients undergoing curative resection for esophagogastric adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

Retrospective data were collected on 190 patients who underwent resection with curative intent for adenocarcinomas found in the stomach and esophagogastric junction from 2004 to 2015 at a single institution.

RESULTS

Of the 190 patients, 34 (18%) were ≥80 years old. Octogenarians were more likely to have chronic kidney disease (CKD) and were less likely to have received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Pathologic features were similar between groups. Octogenarians' tumors were more likely to be located in the gastric body as compared to the esophagogastric junction in younger patients. Although the length of stay was comparable, octogenarians were significantly less likely to be discharged home (P < .01). Both groups had a single death during the index admission. Incidence and severity of 90 days postoperative complications were not significantly different between groups. There was no difference in 30-day, 90-day, 1-year, or median survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Perioperative outcomes and survival of octogenarians undergoing curative resection for esophagogastric cancer are comparable to younger patients at our institution.

Current surgical treatment of esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma

The incidence of esophagogastric junction (EGJ) adenocarcinoma has shown an upward trend over the past several decades worldwide. In this article, we review previous studies and aimed to provide an update on the factors related to the surgical treatment of EGJ adenocarcinoma. The Siewert classification has implications for lymph node spread and is the most commonly used classification. Different types of EGJ cancer have different incidences of mediastinal and abdominal lymph node metastases, and different surgical approaches have unique advantages and disadvantages. Minimally invasive surgeries have been increasingly applied in clinical practice and show comparable oncologic outcomes. Endoscopic resection may be a good therapy for early EGJ cancer. Additionally, there is still a great need for well-designed, large RCTs to forward our knowledge on the surgical treatment of EGJ cancer.

What Is the Best Operation for Proximal Gastric Cancer and Distal Esophageal Cancer?

Cancer of the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) is increasing in incidence, likely as a result of rising obesity and gastroesophageal reflux disease rates. The tumors that arise here share features of esophageal and gastric cancer, and are classified based on their location in relationship to the GEJ. The definition of the GEJ itself, as well as optimal resection strategy, extent of lymph node dissection, resection margin length, and reconstruction methods are still very much a subject of debate. This article summarizes the available evidence on this topic, and highlights specific areas for further research.

Optimal Extent of Transhiatal Gastrectomy and Lymphadenectomy for the Stomach-Predominant Adenocarcinoma of Esophagogastric Junction: Retrospective Single-Institution Study in China

Background: The optimal extent of gastrectomy and lymphadenectomy for esophagogastric junction (EGJ) cancer is controversial. Our study aimed to compare the long-term survival of transhiatal proximal gastrectomy with extended periproximal lymphadenectomy (THPG with EPL) and transhiatal total gastrectomy with complete perigastric lymphadenectomy (THTG with CPL) for patients with the stomach-predominant EGJ cancer.

Methods: Between January 2004, and August 2015, 306 patients with Siewert II tumors were divided into the THTG group (n = 148) and the THPG group (n = 158). Their long-term survival was compared according to Nishi's classification. The Kaplan–Meier method and Cox proportional hazards models were used for survival analysis.

Results: There were no significant differences between the two groups in the distribution of age, gender, tumor size or Nishi's type (P > 0.05). However, a significant difference was observed in terms of pathological tumor stage (P < 0.05). The 5-year overall survival rates were 62.0% in the THPG group and 59.5% in the THTG group. The hazard ratio for death was 0.455 (95% CI, 0.337 to 0.613; log-rank P < 0.001). Type GE/E = G showed a worse prognosis compared with Type G (P < 0.05). Subgroup analysis stratified by Nishi's classification, Stage IA-IIB and IIIA, and tumor size ≤ 30 mm indicated significant survival advantages for the THPG group (P < 0.05). However, this analysis failed to show a survival benefit in Stage IIIB (P > 0.05).

Conclusions: Nishi's classification is an effective method to clarify the subdivision of Siewert II tumors with a diameter ≤ 40 mm above or below the EGJ. THPG with EPL is an optimal procedure for the patients with the stomach-predominant EGJ tumors ≤30 mm in diameter and in Stage IA-IIIA. For more advanced and larger EGJ tumors, further studies are required to confirm the necessity of THTG with CPL.

Cancer of the gastroesophageal junction: a diagnosis, classification, and management review

Management of gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma is a controversial topic. The rising incidence of this cancer requires a clear consensus to ensure proper management. Application of oncological principles for tumors of the esophagus or stomach is not possible because of comparative differences in the biology of GEJ adenocarcinoma, leading to different therapeutic options. Staging work-up with endoscopy, endosonography, and PET is essential to inform the choice of neoadjuvant treatment and surgical approach to GEJ adenocarcinoma. Surgery remains the only curative treatment and should be undertaken in specialized centers.

Clinical significance of esophageal invasion length for the prediction of mediastinal lymph node metastasis in Siewert type II adenocarcinoma: A retrospective single-institution study

AIM

This study investigated whether esophageal invasion length (EIL) of a tumor from the esophagogastric junction could be a possible indicator of mediastinal lymph node metastasis and survival in patients with Siewert type II adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

One hundred and sixty-eight patients with Siewert type II tumor who underwent surgery were enrolled. Metastatic stations and recurrent lymph node sites were classified into cervical, upper/middle/lower mediastinal, and abdominal zones. EIL was correlated with overall metastasis or recurrence in individual zones and with survival.

RESULTS

Siewert type II patients with an EIL of more than 25 mm (>25 mm EIL group) had a higher incidence of overall metastasis or recurrence in the upper and middle mediastinal zones than those with an EIL of less than or equal to 25 mm (≤25 mm EIL group) (P = .001 and P < .001). Disease-free and overall survival in the >25 mm EIL group were significantly lower than those of the ≤25 mm EIL group (P < .001). None of the Siewert type II patients with metastasis or recurrence in the upper and middle mediastinal zones survived for more than 5 years. Only an EIL of more than 25 mm was a significant preoperative predictor of overall metastasis or recurrence in the upper and middle mediastinal zones (odds ratio, 8.85; 95% CI, 2.31-33.3; P = .001).

CONCLUSION

A multimodal-therapeutic strategy should be investigated in Siewert type II patients once the tumor has invaded more than 25 mm to the esophageal wall.

Health-related quality of life after open transhiatal and transthoracic oesophagectomy for cancer

Background

Transhiatal and transthoracic oesophagectomy in patients with oesophageal cancer have similar survival rates. Whether these approaches differ in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is uncertain and was examined in this study.

Methods

Patients undergoing transhiatal or transthoracic surgery for lower-third oesophageal or gastro-oesophageal junctional cancer between 2011 and 2015 were selected from an institutional database. HRQoL outcomes were measured at 6 and 12 months after surgery using validated written questionnaires (European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C30 and QLQ-OG25). Linear mixed models provided mean score differences (MSDs) with 95 per cent confidence intervals, adjusted for preoperative HRQoL, age, physical status (ASA fitness grade), tumour location, tumour stage, neoadjuvant therapy, adjuvant therapy and postoperative complications. MSD values of 10 or more were regarded as clinically relevant.

Results

Some 146 patients underwent transhiatal (86, 58·9 per cent) or transthoracic (60, 41·1 per cent) oesophagectomy. The HRQoL questionnaires were returned by 111 patients at 6 months and 74 at 12 months. At 6 months, transthoracic oesophagectomy was associated with worse role function (MSD –12, 95 per cent c.i. –23 to 0; P = 0·046). At 12 months, patients in the transthoracic group had more nausea and vomiting (MSD 11, 0 to 22; P = 0·045), dyspnoea (MSD 13, 1 to 25; P = 0·029) and constipation (MSD 20, 7 to 33; P = 0·003) than those in the transhiatal group.

Conclusion

Transhiatal oesophagectomy seems to offer better HRQoL than transthoracic oesophagectomy 6 and 12 months after surgery.

Health-related quality of life after gastrectomy, esophagectomy, and combined esophagogastrectomy for gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

The postoperative health-related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes in patients with gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma after gastrectomy and esophagectomy are unclear. The aim was to evaluate HRQOL outcomes 6 months after extended total gastrectomy, subtotal esophagectomy, and combined esophagogastrectomy.

METHODS

Patients who underwent surgery for GEJ adenocarcinoma of Siewert type 2 or 3 in 2001-2005 were identified from a nationwide Swedish prospective and population-based cohort. Three surgical strategies, i.e., gastrectomy, esophagectomy, or esophagogastrectomy, were analyzed in relationship to HRQOL measured at 6 months after surgery (main outcome). HRQOL was assessed using well-validated questionnaires for general (EORTC QLQ-C30) and esophageal cancer-specific (EORTC QLQ-OES18) symptoms. Mean score differences (MSD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were analyzed using ANCOVA and adjusted for age, sex, tumor stage, comorbidity, education level, hospital volume, and postoperative complications. MSDs > 10 were regarded as clinically relevant.

RESULTS

Among 176 patients with complete information on HRQOL and covariates, none of the MSDs for HRQOL among the three surgery groups were clinically and statistically significant. MSDs comparing esophagectomy and gastrectomy showed no major differences in global quality of life (MSD, +8, 95% CI, 0 to +16), physical function (MSD, +2, 95% CI, -5 to +9), pain (MSD, -3, 95% CI, -12 to +7), or reflux (MSD, +5, 95% CI, -4 to +14). Also, complication rates and 5-year survival rates were similar comparing esophagectomy and gastrectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

Extended total gastrectomy, subtotal esophagectomy, and combined esophagogastrectomy seemed to yield similar 6-month postoperative HRQOL outcomes for patients with GEJ adenocarcinoma.

Gastrectomy compared to oesophagectomy for Siewert II and III gastro-oesophageal junctional cancer in relation to resection margins, lymphadenectomy and survival

It is unclear whether gastrectomy or oesophagectomy offer better outcomes for gastro-oesophageal junction (GOJ) cancer. A total of 240 patients undergoing total gastrectomy (n = 85) or oesophagectomy (n = 155) for Siewert II-III GOJ adenocarcinoma were identified from a Swedish prospective population-based nationwide cohort. The surgical approaches were compared in relation to non-radical resection margins (main outcome) using multivariable logistic regression, providing odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), mean number of removed lymph nodes with standard deviation (SD) using ANCOVA, assessing mean differences and 95% CIs, and 5-year mortality using Cox regression estimating hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs. The models were adjusted for age, sex, comorbidity, tumour stage, and surgeon volume. The non-radical resection rate was 15% for gastrectomy and 14% for oesophagectomy, and the adjusted OR was 1.61 (95% CI 0.68-3.83). The mean number of lymph nodes removed was 14.2 (SD ± 9.6) for gastrectomy and 14.2 (SD ± 10.4) for oesophagectomy, with adjusted mean difference of 2.4 (95% CI-0.2-5.0). The 5-year mortality was 76% following gastrectomy and 75% following oesophagectomy, with adjusted HR = 1.07 (95% CI 0.78-1.47). Gastrectomy and oesophagectomy for Siewert II or III GOJ cancer seem comparable regarding tumour-free resection margins, lymph nodes removal, and 5-year survival.

Surgical approaches to adenocarcinoma of the gastroesophageal junction: the Siewert II conundrum

BACKGROUND

The Siewert classification system for gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma has provided morphological and topographical information to help guide surgical decision-making. Evidence has shown that Siewert I and III tumors are distinct entities with differing epidemiologic and histologic characteristics and distinct patterns of disease progression, requiring different treatment. Siewert II tumors share some of the characteristics of type I and III lesions, and the surgical approach is not universally agreed upon. Appropriate surgical options include transthoracic esophagogastrectomy, transhiatal esophagectomy, and transabdominal extended total gastrectomy.

PURPOSE

A review of the available evidence of the surgical management of Siewert II tumors is presented.

CONCLUSIONS

Careful review of the data appear to support the fact that a satisfactory oncologic resection can be achieved via a transabdominal extended total gastrectomy with a slight advantage in terms of perioperative complications, and overall postoperative quality of life. Overall and disease-free survival compares favorably to the transthoracic approach. These results can be achieved with careful selection of patients balancing more than just the Siewert type in the decision-making but considering also preoperative T and N stages, histological type (diffuse type requiring longer margins that are not always achievable via gastrectomy), and the presence of Barrett's esophagus.

New evidence guiding extent of lymphadenectomy for esophagogastric junction tumor: Application of Ber-Ep4 Joint with CD44v6 staining on the detection of lower mediastinal lymph node micrometastasis and survival analysis

For Siewert type II adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEJ), the optimal surgical approach and extent of lymph nodes dissection remain controversial. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) has been reported to be available for identifying lymph node micrometastasis (LNMM) in patients with AEJ. This was a prospective case series of patients who underwent R0 resection and lower mediastinal lymphadenectomy from January 2010 to June 2015 in Fujian Medical University Union Hospital for Siewert type II AEJ. The outcomes were analyzed retrospectively. A total of 1325 lymph nodes were collected from 49 patients, grouped into 3 groups: lower mediastinal, paracardial, and abdominal. The former 2 groups were examined by monoclonal antibodies against Ber-Ep4 and CD44v6. The incidence of LNMM in mediastinal group was 37% (18/49) for Ber-Ep4 and 33% (16/49) for CD44v6. While in routine histological diagnosis, the number of patients with the positive lymph nodes was 7 (14%). When combining IHC with histopathology (HE) staining, the incidence of positive mediastinal lymph nodes was increased to 24%, with a total number of 37 lymph nodes from 28 patients (57%). Micrometastases indicated by Ber-Ep4 and CD44v6 were associated with the depth of tumor invasion (P = 0.020 and 0.037, respectively), histopathological nodal status (P = 0.024 and 0.01, respectively), and Lauren classification (P = 0.038 and, respectively). Expression of CD44v6 and Ber-Ep4 was positively correlated (r = 0.643, P < 0.001). The 3- and 5-year survival rates for all patients were 66% and 50%, respectively. The patients with LNMM had a lower 3-year survival rate of 51%, compared to 80% from no LNMM group; 5-year survival rate was also lower in LNMM group, which is 29% versus 68% (P = 0.006) in the no LNMM group. Patients with positive Ber-Ep4 cells had a lower survival, but not statistically significant (P = 0.058). CD44v6-positive group had a significantly reduced survival (P < 0.001). In patients group with negative lower mediastinal lymph nodes, patients without LNMM obtained a significant survival benefit (P = 0.021). Our study demonstrated that routine test for LNMM is necessary for patients with negative lymph nodes. As a positive prognostic factor, thorough lower mediastinal lymphadenectomy in an invasive approach should be considered when necessary. Ber-Ep4 and CD44v6 were shown to be great markers for detecting LNMM.

Principles of esophageal cancer surgery, including surgical approaches and optimal node dissection (2- vs. 3-field)

Surgery for esophageal carcinoma and carcinoma of the gastro-esophageal junction (GEJ) is considered as one of the most complex and challenging interventions on the digestive tract. This is due to the intimate relations with vital structures in the chest and the tendency of early lymphatic dissemination via a dense and complex submucosal network. This review article discusses the different aspects of surgical access routes in the light of the ever-evolving techniques, in particular the minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE). The aspects of surgical approach are inextricably linked to the still ongoing debate on extent of lymphadenectomy, a debate that is obtaining a new dimension in view of the widely applied neoadjuvant therapy protocols as well as in view of the increasing importance of quality of life aspects after surgery. Finally, the authors provide a practical and patient tailored approach as applied in their center.

The clinicopathologic characteristics and prognostic factors of gastroesophageal junction tumors according to Siewert classification

OBJECTIVE

The treatment of gastroesophageal junction tumors remains controversial due to confusion on whether they should be considered as primary esophageal or as gastric tumors. The incidence of these tumors with poor prognosis has increased, thus creating scientific interest on gastroesophageal cancers. Esophagogastric cancers are classified according to their location by Siewert, and the treatment of each type varies. We evaluated the prognostic factors and differences in clinicopathologic factors of patients with gastroesophageal junction tumor, who have been treated and followed-up in our clinics.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 187 patients with gastroesophageal junction tumors who have been operated and treated in the Oncology Department between 2005 and 2014. The chi-square test was used to evaluate differences in clinicopathologic factors among Siewert groups I, II and III. Prognostic factors were analyzed by univariate and multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

The median age of our patients was 62 years, and approximately 70% was male. Nineteen patients (10.2%) had Siewert I tumors, 40 (21.4%) II, and the remaining 128 (64.4%) had Siewert III tumors. Siewert III tumors were at more advanced pathologic and T stages. Preoperative chemoradiotherapy was mostly applied to Siewert group I patients. There was no difference between the 3 groups in terms of recurrence. While the median overall survival and 2-year overall survival rate were 26.6 months and 39.6%, the median disease free survival and disease free survival rates were 16.5 months and 30.1%, respectively. The N stage, pathologic stage, vascular invasion, lymphatic invasion, perineural invasion, surgical margin, and grade were associated with both overall survival and disease free survival, while pathologic stage and presence of recurrence were significant factors for overall survival. The median disease free survival for Siewert III tumors was 20 months, 11.3 month for Siewert I tumors, and 14 months for Siewert II tumors, but the finding was not statistically significant (p=0.08).

CONCLUSION

Although gastroesophageal junction tumors were grouped according to their location and they exerted different clinicopathologic properties, their prognosis was similar.

Improvement in postoperative mortality in elective gastrectomy for gastric cancer: Analysis of predictive factors in 1066 patients from a single centre

BACKGROUND

Gastrectomy represents the main treatment for gastric adenocarcinoma. This procedure is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the postoperative mortality changes across the study period and to identify predictive factors of 30-day mortality after elective gastrectomy for gastric cancer.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of a prospective database from a single centre. Patients treated with an elective gastrectomy from 1996 to 2014 for gastric adenocarcinoma were included. We compared postoperative mortality between four time periods: 1996-2000, 2001-2005, 2006-2010, and 2011-2014. Univariate and multivariate analyses were applied to identify predictors of 30-day postoperative mortality.

RESULTS

We included 1066 patients (median age 65 years; 67% male). The 30-day mortality rate was 4.7%. Mortality decreased across the four time periods; from 6.5% to 1.8% (P = 0.022). In the univariate analysis, age, ASA score, albumin <3.5, multivisceral resection, splenectomy, intrathoracic esophagojejunal anastomosis, R status, and T status were significantly associated with postoperative mortality. In the multivariate analysis, ASA class 3 (OR 10.06; CI 1.97-51.3; P = 0.005) and multivisceral resection (OR 1.6; CI 1.09-2.36; P = 0.016) were associated with higher postoperative 30-day mortality; surgery between 2011 and 2014 was associated with lower postoperative 30-day mortality (OR 0.55; CI 0.33-0.15; P = 0.030).

CONCLUSION

There was a decrease in postoperative 30-day mortality during this 18-year period at our institution. We have identified ASA score and multivisceral resection as predictors of 30-day mortality for elective gastrectomy for cancer.

Pathologic Complete Response After Preoperative Chemotherapy With a Regimen Containing Trastuzumab in Esophagogastric Junction Adenocarcinoma: A Case Report

Perioperative adjuvant treatment for esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma has been attempted, but the efficacy of preoperative therapy is unclear. We report here a case of pathologic complete response after preoperative treatment containing trastuzumab in esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma. A 54-year-old man presented at our institution with dysphagia. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy and computed tomography revealed an 8 × 5 cm sized tumor on the gastric cardia and lower intrathoracic esophagus with invasion to the diaphragm (T4bN0M0, Stage IIIB). Biopsy showed a well-differentiated and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–positive adenocarcinoma. He received 2 cycles of preoperative chemotherapy consisting of trastuzumab, cisplatin, and capecitabine, without severe toxicity. Afterward, he underwent esophagectomy and total gastrectomy with mediastinal and abdominal D2 lymph node dissections. No cancer cells were detected during histopathologic examination, indicating pathologic complete response. Regimens containing trastuzumab are feasible and promising as preoperative chemotherapy for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–positive esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma.

Comparison of survival outcomes between transthoracic and transabdominal surgical approaches in patients with Siewert-II/III esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma: a single-institution retrospective cohort study

Objective

To compare the survival outcomes of transabdominal (TA) and transthoracic (TT) surgical approaches in patients with Siewert-II/III esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma.

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted in patients with Siewert-II/III esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma who underwent either TT or TA operations in the West China Hospital between January 2006 and December 2009.

Results

A total of 308 patients (109 in the TT and 199 in the TA groups) were included in this study with a follow-up rate of 87.3%. The median (P25, P75) number of harvested perigastric lymph nodes was 8 (5, 10) in the TT group and 23 (16, 34) in the TA group (P<0.001), and the number of positive perigastric lymph nodes was 2 (0, 5) in the TT group and 3 (1, 8) in the TA group (P<0.004). The 5-year overall survival (OS) rate was 36% in the TT group and 51% in the TA group (P=0.005). Subgroup analysis by Siewert classification showed that 5-year OS rates for patients with Siewert II tumors were 38% and 48% in TT and TA groups, respectively (P=0.134), whereas the 5-year OS rate for patients with Siewert III tumors was significantly lower in the TT group than that in the TA group (33% vs. 53%; P=0.010). Multivariate analysis indicated that N2 and N3 stages, R1/R2 resection and a TT surgical approach were prognostic factors for poor OS.

Conclusions

Improved perigastric lymph node dissection may be the main reason for better survival outcomes observed with a TA gastrectomy approach than with TT gastrectomy for Siewert III tumor patients.

The surgical management of esophago-gastric junctional cancer

The best available surgical strategy in the treatment of resectable esophago-gastric junctional (EGJ) cancer is a controversial topic. In this review we evaluate the current literature and scientific evidence examining the surgical treatment of locally advanced EGJ cancer by comparing esophagectomy with gastrectomy, transhiatal with transthoracic esophagectomy, minimally invasive with open esophagectomy, and less extensive with more extensive lymphadenectomy. We also assess endoscopic procedures increasingly used for early EGJ cancer. The current evidence does not favor any of the techniques over the others in terms of oncological outcomes. Health-related quality of life may be better following gastrectomy compared to esophagectomy. Minimally invasive procedures might be less prone to surgical complications. Endoscopic techniques are safe and effective alternatives for early-stage EGJ cancer in the short term, but surgical treatment is the mainstay in fit patients due to the risk of lymph node metastasis. Any benefit of lymphadenectomy extending beyond local or regional nodes is uncertain. This review demonstrates the great need for well-designed clinical studies to improve the knowledge in how to optimize and standardize the surgical treatment of EGJ cancer.

Combination of concept and clinical practice - putting a high premium on neoadjuvant therapy for adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction

The incidence of adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG) is rising rapidly in recent years. The opinion that AEG is an independent disease different from squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus and gastric adenocarcinoma has been accepted by more and more scholars. R0 resection with D2 lymph node dissection is the cornerstone of treatment, but surgical techniques remain controversial with particular uncertainty about the operation ways, appropriate resection extent about the esophagus and stomach, and lymphadenectomy sites. Neoadjuvant therapy has attracted increasing attention due to a high rate of relapse after resection and poor survival rate for most patients with advanced disease at diagnosis. Although clinical literature and meta-analyses show that neoadjuvant chemotherapy results in a significant survival benefit at 5 years for resectable locally advanced AEG, and preoperative chemoradiotherapy also should be as a standard treatment for AEG versus surgery alone, the optimal regimens of neoadjuvant therapy and comparisons between preoperative chemotherapy and chemoradiotherapy still need to be studied further.

Evaluation of MMP-9 and MMP-2 and their suppressor TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 in adenocarcinoma of esophagogastric junction

OBJECTIVE

Adenocarcinoma of esophagogastric junction (AEG) is a lethal malignancy featured with early metastasis, poor prognosis, and few treatment options. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and metalloproteinase suppressor (TIMP) have been considered to be associated with cancer invasion and metastasis. In our study, we evaluated expressions of MMP-9, MMP-2, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 in AEG and their correlation with clinicopathological parameters and the overall survival rate.

METHODS

Expressions of MMP-9, MMP-2, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 in specimens from 120 AEGs were detected by immunohistochemistry. The correlations between expressions of these four proteins and clinicopathological characters were analyzed by chi-square test. Moreover, the prognostic value of these four biomarkers was evaluated by univariate analysis with Kaplan-Meier method and multivariate analysis with Cox regression model.

RESULTS

The positive expression rate of MMP-9, MMP-2, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 was 65%, 53%, 70%, and 49%, respectively, in the detected 120 AEG samples. MMP-9 was significantly associated with poorly histological differentiation (P=0.001), lymph node metastasis (P=0.007), and UICC stage (P=0.008). TIMP-1 showed significantly reversed correlations with histological differentiation (P=0.001), lymph node metastasis (P=0.007), and Union for International Cancer Control stage (P=0.008). Univariate analysis revealed that lymph node metastasis (P=0.002), depth of invasion (P=0.050), and MMP-9+/TIMP-1 phonotype (P<0.001) were significantly associated with the overall survival rate. Multivariate analyses demonstrated that MMP-9+/TIMP-1-phenotype was an independent prognostic factor in AEGs.

CONCLUSION

Detection of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 expression allows stratification of AEG patients into different survival categories and can be useful for precise individual evaluation and survival prediction.

Examination of Surgical Specimens of the Esophagus

CONTEXT

Esophageal cancer continues to be one of the most lethal of all gastrointestinal malignancies. Its prognostic parameters are based on the gross and histopathologic examination of resected specimens by pathologists.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the implications of appropriate handling and examination of endomucosal resection and esophagectomy specimens from patients with esophageal carcinoma while considering the implications of the surgical techniques used to obtain such specimens. Parameters include histopathologic findings necessary for accurate staging, differences in the assessment of margins, residual malignancy, and criteria to evaluate for tumor regression after chemoradiation therapy as well as the role of immunohistochemistry and the judicious use of frozen sections.

DATA SOURCES

Sources were a review of the literature and the authors' experience handling these types of specimens.

CONCLUSIONS

Examining surgical specimens of the esophagus is critical in the management of patients with esophageal carcinoma, and it requires careful consideration of the diagnostic pitfalls, staging-related parameters, and results of molecular tests.

Total esophagogastrectomy in the neoplasms of the esophagus and esofagogastric junction: when must be indicated?

OBJECTIVE

to analyse the indications and results of the total esophagogastrectomy in cancers of the distal esophagus and esophagogastric junction.

METHODS

twenty patients with adenocarcinomas were operated with a mean age of 55 ± 9.9 years (31-70 years), and 14 cases were male (60%). Indications were 18 tumors of the distal esophagus and esophagogastric junction (90%) and two with invasion of gastric fundus (10%) in patients with previous gastrectomy. Preoperative colonoscopy to exclude colonic diseases was performed in ten cases.

RESULTS

the surgical technique consisted of median laparotomy and left cervicotomy, followed by transhiatal esophagectomy associated with D2 lymphadenectomy. The reconstructions were performed with eight esophagocoloduodenoplasty and the others were Roux-en-Y esophagocolojejunoplasty to prevent the alkaline reflux. Three cases were stage I / II, while 15 cases (85%) were stages III / IV, reflecting late diagnosis of these tumors. The operative mortality was 5 patients (25%): a mediastinitis secondary to necrosis of the transposed colon, abdominal cellulitis secondary to wound infection, severe pneumonia, an irreversible shock and sepsis associated with colojejunal fistula. Four patients died in the first year after surgery: 3 (15%) were due to tumor recurrence and 1 (5%) secondary to bronchopneumonia. The 5-year survival was 15%.

CONCLUSION

the total esophagogastrectomy associated with esophagocoloplasty has high morbidity and mortality, requiring precise indication, and properly selected patients benefit from the surgery, with the risk-benefit acceptable, contributing to increased survival and improved quality of life.

Long-term quality of life after surgery for adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction: extended gastrectomy or transthoracic esophagectomy?

BACKGROUND

Esophagectomy with gastric tube reconstruction and extended transhiatal gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction are alternative procedures in current therapeutic concepts for adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG). The impact of these operations on long-term health-related quality of life (HRQL) is incompletely understood.

METHODS

Patients with cancer-free survival of at least 24 months after esophagectomy (ESO) or extended gastrectomy (GAST) for AEG were identified from a prospectively maintained database. EORTC questionnaires were sent out to assess health-related general (QLQ-C30) and cancer-specific (OG-25) quality of life. Numeric scores were calculated for each conceptual area and compared with those of healthy reference populations.

RESULTS

123 patients (ESO n = 71; GAST n = 52) completed the self-rated questionnaires. HRQL was consistently lower in surgical patients (GAST and ESO) compared with healthy reference populations. Also, there was a general trend for a better HRQL in GAST compared with ESO patients. This trend was statistically significant for physical function (p = 0.04), dyspnea (p = 0.02), and reflux (p = 0.03). Subgroup analysis revealed no significant differences between patients with or without prior neoadjuvant therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

After mid- and long-term follow-up, HRQL after extended gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction is superior to that after esophagectomy and gastric tube reconstruction. Improved HRQL after gastrectomy is mainly due to less pulmonary and reflux-related symptoms. Our findings may influence the choice of the surgical strategy for patients with AEG.

The importance of the proximal resection margin distance for proximal gastric adenocarcinoma: A multi-institutional study of the US Gastric Cancer Collaborative

BACKGROUND

A 5 cm margin is advocated for distal gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC). The optimal proximal resection margin (PM) length for proximal GAC is not established.

METHODS

Patients who underwent curative-intent resection for proximal GAC from 2000 to 2012 at 7 centers in the US Gastric Cancer Collaborative were included. PM length was sequentially dichotomized and analyzed at 0.5 cm increments (0.5-6.5 cm). Outcomes after negative margin (R0) and positive microscopic margin (R1) resections were compared. Primary endpoints were local recurrence (LR) and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

All patients (n = 162) had R0 distal margins. 151 (93.2%) had an R0-PM with mean length of 2.6 cm (median:1.7 cm; range:0.1-15 cm). A greater PM distance was not associated with LR or OS. An R1-PM was associated with higher N-stage (N3:73% vs. 26%; P = 0.007) and increased LR (HR6.1; P = 0.009) but not associated with decreased OS. On multivariate analysis, an R1-PM was also not independently associated with LR.

CONCLUSIONS

For resection of proximal gastric adenocarcinoma, proximal margin length is not associated with local recurrence or overall survival. An R1 margin is associated with advanced N-stage but is not independently associated with recurrence or survival. When performing resection of proximal gastric adenocarcinoma, efforts to achieve a specific margin distance, especially if it necessitates an esophagectomy, should be abandoned.

Concurrent Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy for Siewert II and III Adenocarcinoma at Gastroesophageal Junction

OBJECTIVE

This study was conducted to investigate the efficacy and safety of using a concurrent neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (a XELOX regimen) to treat adenocarcinoma of the gastroesophageal junction.

METHODS

Seventy-six patients having resectable adenocarcinoma at the gastroesophageal junction (T3/4, N+, M0) were recruited to participate and randomly assigned to either a chemoradiotherapy group or a surgery group. Patients in the chemoradiotherapy group were orally given capecitabine (1,000 mg/m2, twice daily for 14 days, days 1-14) and intravenous oxaliplatin (130 mg/m2 on day 1) for 2 cycles. Radiotherapy was performed with a total of 45 Gy administered in 25 sessions for 5 weeks. Patients in the surgery group received only surgical intervention.

RESULTS

In the concurrent chemoradiotherapy group, the overall response rate was 55.6% (20/36), tumor control rate was 100% and a pathological complete response was achieved in 16.7% (6/36). The entire chemoradiotherapy group had R0 resections as did 80% of the surgery group (32/40) (P < 0.05). In the concurrent chemoradiotherapy group, 6 patients developed grade 3 side effects. Treatment was either discontinued or the dose adjusted. Major hematological side effects in the chemoradiotherapy group included leukopenia, neutropenia, anemia and thrombocytopenia. Nonhematological side effects included nausea, vomiting and appetite loss. Chemoradiotherapy-related death was not observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Concurrent neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy administration increased the rate of R0 resection and demonstrated favorable safety in patients with Siewert II or III adenocarcinoma at the gastroesophageal junction. These results support the use of neoadjunctive chemoradiotherapy in the treatment of adenocarcinoma of the gastroesophageal junction.

[Lymph node involvement in œsophageal cancer: surgical approach]

Lymph node invasion is an early event in the oesophageal carcinogenesis and represents the main prognostic factor in the curative setting. Even though the primacy of surgical resection has been challenged by the definitive radiochemotherapy for locally advanced squamous cell carcinomas of the oesophagus, surgery is now again a gold standard, in combination with (radio)chemotherapy, to improve locoregional disease control and long term survival. Surgery, especially lymphadenectomy, has consequently to be standardized through quality criteria. Lymph node stations invaded in œsophageal and junctional cancers, lymphadenectomy, and its impact on outcomes are discussed in this review based on the highest level of evidence published data.

Prognostic impact of TAZ and β-catenin expression in adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction

Abstract

Virtual Slides

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Survival and recurrence patterns after neoadjuvant docetaxel, cisplatin, and 5-fluorouracil (DCF) for locally advanced esophagogastric adenocarcinoma

INTRODUCTION

We have previously identified Docetaxel, Cisplatin, and 5FU (DCF) as a safe, tolerable, and effective regimen in the neoadjuvant setting for locally advanced adenocarcinoma (ADC) of the esophagus and esophagogastric junction (EGJ). We hypothesized that DCF combined with enhanced surgical control would result in a low rate of local or regional recurrence, and thus reviewed our outcomes with this treatment regimen.

METHODS

A prospectively entered database of all esophageal and EGJ ADC patients resected at a high-volume referral center over 6 years (9/07-9/13) was reviewed for cases treated with curative intent neoadjuvant DCF followed by en bloc resection with extended lymphadenectomy (D2/D3). Recurrences was defined as locoregional (biopsy on endoscopy/regional lymph nodes (LNs)) and distant. Standard statistical techniques were used.

RESULTS

Of 279 patients with ADC, 86 (85% male, mean age 63 years (interquartile range 56-70)) underwent preoperative DCF and curative intent resection for locally advanced ADC (cT3 93%; cN+ 69%) of the EGJ (54%) or distal esophagus (46%). After median follow-up of 40 months, the overall 5-year survival was 54% and 43 (52%) had recurred at a median time of 14 months. Sites of recurrence included locoregional only in 2 of 45 (4%), distant only in 40 of 45 (89%), and locoregional and distant in 3 of 45 (7%).

DISCUSSION

The present study demonstrates favourable oncologic outcomes with low local/regional recurrence and an excellent overall 5-year survival after neoadjuvant DCF for esophageal and EGJ ADCs. Because the majority of recurrences were distant, our data support the notion that efforts to improve outcomes in these patients should concentrate on enhancing systemic, rather than local, therapy.

Status and prognosis of lymph node metastasis in patients with cardia cancer - a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Adenocarcinoma of the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) has a poor prognosis and survival rates significantly decreases if lymph node metastasis is present. An extensive lymphadenectomy may increase chances of cure, but may also lead to further postoperative morbidity and mortality. Therefore, the optimal treatment of cardia cancer remains controversial. A systematic review of English publications dealing with adenocarcinoma of the cardia was conducted to elucidate patterns of nodal spread and prognostic implications.

METHODS

A systematic literature search based on PRISMA guidelines identifying relevant studies describing lymph node metastasis and the associated prognosis. Lymph node stations were classified according to the Japanese Gastric Cancer Association guidelines.

RESULTS

The highest incidence of metastasis is seen in the nearest regional lymph nodes, station no. 1-3 and additionally in no. 7, 9 and 11. Correspondingly the best survival is seen when metastasis remain in the most locoregional nodes and survival equally tends to decrease as the metastasis become more distant. Furthermore, the presence of lymph node metastasis significantly correlates to the TNM-stage. Incidences of metastasis in mediastinal lymph nodes are associated with poor survival.

CONCLUSION

The best survival rates is seen when lymph node metastasis remains locoregional and survival rates decreases when distant lymph node metastasis is present. The dissection of locoregional lymph nodes offers significantly therapeutic benefit, but larger and prospective studies are needed to evaluate the effect of dissecting distant and mediastinal lymph nodes.