Surgical therapy of oesophageal carcinoma

Multicenter study on the incidence and treatment of mediastinal leaks after esophagectomy (MuMeLe 2)

BACKGROUND

Management of mediastinal anastomotic leaks (MALs) after Ivor Lewis esophagectomy includes conservative, endoscopic, or surgical management. Endoscopic vacuum therapy (EVAC) is becoming a routine approach for MALs, although the outcomes have not been defined. This study aimed to describe the incidence, treatment, and outcomes of MALs in patients who underwent esophagectomy in 3 Italian high-volume centers that routinely use EVAC for MAL.

METHODS

Patients who underwent Ivor Lewis esophagectomy between September 2018 and March 2023 were included.

RESULTS

A total of 681 patients underwent Ivor Lewis esophagectomy, of whom 88 had MAL. The MAL rates for open, minimally invasive, and robotic esophagectomies were 11.5%, 13.4%, and 14.8%, respectively. Global and specific 30- and 90-day mortality rates for MAL were 0.9% and 2.1% and 6.8% and 15.9%, respectively. Nonoperative management (NOM) as the primary treatment was chosen for 62 patients. EVAC was the most common NOM (62.9%), and the most common operative management (OM) was anastomotic redo (53.8%). Diversion was the OM for 7 patients, of whom 3 patients died. Primary treatment proved successful in 40 patients. Among them, EVAC alone was successful in 35.9% of patients. Globally, endoscopic treatment, including EVAC, was successful in 79.0% of NOM and 55.7% of MALs. NOM and OM were chosen as secondary treatments for 27 and 10 patients, respectively. Secondary treatment proved successful in 21 patients.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of MALs after Ivor Lewis esophagectomy is approximately 13%. Endoscopic techniques have a success rate of almost 80%, with EVAC representing a significant part of this treatment process.

Pre- and intra-operative risk factors predict postoperative respiratory failure after minimally invasive oesophagectomy

OBJECTIVES

Severe pulmonary complications such as postoperative respiratory failure can occur after minimally invasive oesophagectomy. However, the risk factors have not been well identified. The goal of this study was to develop a predictive model for the occurrence of postoperative respiratory failure with a large sample.

METHODS

We collected data from patients with oesophageal cancer who had a minimally invasive oesophagectomy at Shanghai Chest Hospital from 2019 to 2022. Univariable and backward stepwise logistic regression analysis of 19 pre- and intra-operative factors was used before model fitting, and its performance was evaluated with the receiver operating characteristic curve. Internal validation was assessed with a calibration plot, decision curve analysis and area under the curve with 95% confidence intervals, obtained from 1000 resamples set by the bootstrap method.

RESULTS

This study enrolled 2,386 patients, 57 (2.4%) of whom developed postoperative respiratory failure. Backward stepwise logistic regression analysis revealed that age, body mass index, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, diffusion capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide, tumour location and duration of chest surgery ≥101.5 min were predictive factors. A predictive model was constructed and showed acceptable performance (area under the curve: 0.755). The internal validation with the bootstrap method proves the good agreement for prediction and reality.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity, severe diffusion dysfunction and upper segment oesophageal cancer were strong predictive factors. The established predictive model has acceptable predictive validity for postoperative respiratory failure after minimally invasive oesophagectomy, which may improve the identification of high-risk patients and enable health-care professionals to perform risk assessment for postoperative respiratory failure at the initial consultation.

Contrast-enhanced CT radiomics features to preoperatively identify differences between tumor and proximal tumor-adjacent and tumor-distant tissues of resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Esophagectomy is the main treatment for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), and patients with histopathologically negative margins still have a relatively higher recurrence rate. Contrast-enhanced CT (CECT) radiomics might noninvasively obtain potential information about the internal heterogeneity of ESCC and its adjacent tissues. This study aimed to develop CECT radiomics models to preoperatively identify the differences between tumor and proximal tumor-adjacent and tumor-distant tissues in ESCC to potentially reduce tumor recurrence.

METHODS

A total of 529 consecutive patients with ESCC from Centers A (n = 447) and B (n = 82) undergoing preoperative CECT were retrospectively enrolled in this study. Radiomics features of the tumor, proximal tumor-adjacent (PTA) and proximal tumor-distant (PTD) tissues were individually extracted by delineating the corresponding region of interest (ROI) on CECT and applying the 3D-Slicer radiomics module. Patients with pairwise tissues (ESCC vs. PTA, ESCC vs. PTD, and PTA vs. PTD) from Center A were randomly assigned to the training cohort (TC, n = 313) and internal validation cohort (IVC, n = 134). Univariate analysis and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator were used to select the core radiomics features, and logistic regression was performed to develop radiomics models to differentiate individual pairwise tissues in TC, validated in IVC and the external validation cohort (EVC) from Center B. Diagnostic performance was assessed using area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) and accuracy.

RESULTS

With the chosen 20, 19 and 5 core radiomics features in TC, 3 individual radiomics models were developed, which exhibited excellent ability to differentiate the tumor from PTA tissue (AUC: 0.965; accuracy: 0.965), the tumor from PTD tissue (AUC: 0.991; accuracy: 0.958), and PTA from PTD tissue (AUC: 0.870; accuracy: 0.848), respectively. In IVC and EVC, the models also showed good performance in differentiating the tumor from PTA tissue (AUCs: 0.956 and 0.962; accuracy: 0.956 and 0.937), the tumor from PTD tissue (AUCs: 0.990 and 0.974; accuracy: 0.952 and 0.970), and PTA from PTD tissue (AUCs: 0.806 and 0.786; accuracy: 0.760 and 0.786), respectively.

CONCLUSION

CECT radiomics models could differentiate the tumor from PTA tissue, the tumor from PTD tissue, and PTA from PTD tissue in ESCC.

Evolution of Treatment Outcomes and Prognostic Factors in Esophageal Cancer Surgery: A Retrospective Analysis of 1500 Consecutive Esophagostomies

Objective

To clarify the surgical outcomes of esophagectomy in Japan and comprehensively evaluate trends over time. It is important to analyze data from a large number of consecutive patients from a single institution.

Methods

We evaluated the treatment outcomes, complications, and prognosis of 1500 consecutive patients who underwent esophagectomy during 5 periods: group A (n = 284), 1964-1984; group B (n = 345), 1985-1993; group C (n = 253), 1994-2002; group D (n = 297), 2003-2012; and group E (n = 321), 2013-March 2020.

Results

The incidences of squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma were 93.8% and 3.3%, respectively. The proportion of adenocarcinoma cases has gradually increased over time. The in-hospital mortality rates for groups A, B, C, D, and E were 12%, 4.6%, 1.2%, 2.9%, and 1.5%, respectively. Group A had a significantly higher mortality rate than the other groups (P < 0.0001). Three-year survival rates were 22.2%, 47.8%, 53.4%, 69.9%, and 72.6% in groups A-E, respectively, 5-year survival rates were 17.2%, 41.3%, 49.2%, 63.9%, and 68.4%, respectively (P < 0.0001, group A vs groups D and E). The prognosis improved over time. Multivariate analysis revealed that depth of invasion, lymph node metastasis, the extent of lymph node resection, curative resection, pulmonary complications, and anastomotic leakage were significant independent prognostic factors. However, for recent surgeries (groups D and E), only the depth of invasion, lymph node metastasis, and curative resection were significant independent prognostic factors.

Conclusions

Valuable changes in background and prognostic factors occurred over time. These findings will help optimize esophageal cancer management and improve patient outcomes.

Impact of intravenous injection of glucagon on anastomotic leakage in esophagectomy

Background

Anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy affects the early postoperative state and prognosis. However, effective measures to prevent anastomotic leakage in esophagogastric anastomosis have not been established.

Methods

This single-center, retrospective, observational study included 147 patients who underwent esophagectomy for esophageal cancer between 2010 and 2020. Glucagon was administered to extend the gastric tube in patients who underwent esophagectomy from January 2016. The patients were divided into two groups: a glucagon-treated group (2016-2020) and a control group (2010-2015). The incidence of anastomotic leakage was compared between the two groups for evaluation of the preventive effects of glucagon administration on anastomotic leakage.

Results

The length of the gastric tube from the pyloric ring to the final branch of the right gastroepiploic artery was extended by 2.8 cm after glucagon injection. The incidence of anastomotic leakage was significantly lower in the glucagon-treated group (19% vs. 38%; p = 0.014). Multivariate analysis showed that glucagon injection was the only independent factor associated with a reduction in anastomotic leakage (odds ratio, 0.26; 95% confidence interval, 0.07-0.87). Esophagogastric anastomosis was performed proximal to the final branch of the right gastroepiploic artery in 37% patients in the glucagon-treated group, and these cases showed a lower incidence of anastomotic leakage than did those with anastomosis distal to the final branch of the right gastroepiploic artery (10% vs. 25%, p = 0.087).

Conclusions

Extension of the gastric tube by intravenous glucagon administration during gastric mobilization in esophagectomy for esophageal cancer may be effective in preventing anastomotic leakage.

The Esophagogastric Anastomosis: The Importance of Anchoring Sutures in Reducing Anastomotic Leak Rates

Background

The incidence of anastomotic leakage in gastrointestinal surgery is highest after esophagogastric anastomosis, with leakage rates of 10% to 38% still being reported, but little consensus as to cause or corrective. The role of anastomotic tension from a series of physiological forces acting on the anastomosis from the moment of recovery from anesthesia may be underestimated. It was hypothesized that anchoring the conduit in the mediastinum would provide the greatest protection during the vulnerable healing phase.

Patients and Methods

A prospectively maintained database was interrogated for anastomotic leakage following the introduction of an anastomotic technique employing anchoring sutures where the gastric conduit was secured to the mediastinal pleura with 3 obliquely inserted load-bearing sutures. A contrast study was performed between days 5 and 7 and all intrahospital mortalities underwent autopsy. Clinical, radiological, and autopsy leaks were recorded.

Results

Of 146 intrathoracic esophagogastric anastomoses in 144 patients, 81 (55%) of which were stapled, there was 1 clinical leak and 1 patient with an aortoenteric fistula, considered at autopsy to be possibly due to an anastomotic leak, to give an anastomotic leak rate of 2 in 146 (1.37%).

Conclusion

The low anastomotic leak rate in this series is potentially due to the protective effect of anchoring sutures, the chief difference from an otherwise standard anastomotic technique. These sutures protect the anastomosis from a series of distracting forces during the most vulnerable phase of healing. It is intuitive that the absence of tension would also reduce any risk posed by a minor impairment of blood supply or any imperfection of the technique.

Targeted Drug Delivery System Based on Copper Sulfide for Synergistic Near-Infrared Photothermal Therapy/Photodynamic Therapy/Chemotherapy of Triple Negative Breast Cancer

Multi-modal synergistic therapy, especially the integration of near-infrared laser phototherapies and chemotherapy, is often sought after owing to its minimal invasiveness, low side effects, and improved anticancer therapeutic efficacy. Herein, CuS nanoparticles were first coated with zinc phthalocyanine derivant (Pc)-functionalized mesoporous silica (mSiO₂-Pc) to achieve a drug delivery system (CuS@mSiO₂-Pc) with photothermal/photodynamic therapy. Chemical drug DOX was subsequently loaded for chemotherapy, and hyaluronic acid (HA) was employed as a covering material with cancer targeting. The as-obtained CuS@mSiO₂-Pc(DOX)@HA nanoparticles were nano-sized with good biocompatibility, effective DOX loading, and controllable DOX releasing. Expectedly, this multifunctional nanoplatform exhibits effective generation of reactive oxygen species and hyperthermia upon the near-infrared laser irradiation. Most importantly, the nanoparticles were targeted into 4T1 cells and showed significantly remarkable cytotoxicity under near-infrared laser irradiation, proving their synergistic therapeutic efficacy. Therefore, this targeted drug system based on CuS with synergistic photothermal therapy/photodynamic therapy/chemotherapy has great application prospects in clinical anticancer treatment for triple negative breast cancer.

Self-expanding Metal Stents for Anastomotic Leaks After Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is a common and severe complication after upper gastrointestinal (UGI) surgery. Although evidence is scarce, endoscopic deployed self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) are well-established for the management of AL in UGI surgery. The present study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, effectiveness, and safety of SEMS in terms of success, mortality, and morbidity in patients with AL after UGI cancer surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with AL after primary UGI cancer surgery were retrospectively analyzed with regard to demographics, disease, surgical and endoscopic procedures, and complications. Stent treatment success was divided into technical, primary (within 72 hours of stent deployment), sustained (after 72 hours of stent deployment), and sealing success.

RESULTS

In a total of 63 patients, 74 stents were used and 11 were deployed in endoscopic reinterventions. Stent deployment was successful in all patients. Primary and sustained success rates were 68.3% (n = 43) and 65.1% (n = 41), respectively. Of the primarily successfully treated patients, 87.8% remained successfully treated. If primary treatment was unsuccessful, it remained unsuccessful in 66.6% of the patients (P = 0.002). Final sealing of the leakage was observed in 65.1% of patients (n = 41). Longer stent shafts and wider stent end widths were correlated with successful stent treatment (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

SEMS are a safe and sufficient tool in the treatment of AL after UGI cancer surgery. Treatment success is improved with longer stent shafts and wider stent end widths. Switching to alternative treatments is strongly suggested if signs of persistent leakage are present beyond 72 hours after stent placement, as this is highly indicative of sustained stent failure.

Drug-Loaded, Polyurethane Coated Nitinol Stents for the Controlled Release of Docetaxel for the Treatment of Oesophageal Cancer

For several decades, self-expanding metal stents (SEMSs) have shown significant clinical success in the palliation of obstructive metastatic oesophageal cancer. However, these conventional oesophageal stents can suffer from stent blockage caused by malignant tumour cell growth. To overcome this challenge, there is growing interest in drug-releasing stents that, in addition to palliation, provide a sustained and localized release of anticancer drugs to minimise tumour growth. Therefore, in this study we prepared and evaluated an oesophageal stent-based drug delivery platform to provide the sustained release of docetaxel (DTX) for the treatment of oesophageal cancer-related obstructions. The DTX-loaded oesophageal stents were fabricated via dip-coating of bare nitinol stents with DTX-polyurethane (PU) solutions to provide PU coated stents with DTX loadings of 1.92 and 2.79% w/w. Mechanical testing of the DTX-PU coated stents revealed that an increase in the drug loading resulted in a reduction in the ultimate tensile strength, toughness and Young’s modulus. In vitro release studies showed a sustained release of DTX, with ~80–90% released over a period of 33 days. While the DTX-loaded stents exhibited good stability to gamma radiation sterilisation, UV sterilisation or accelerated storage at elevated temperatures (40 °C) resulted in significant DTX degradation. Cell proliferation, apoptosis and Western blotting assays revealed that the DTX released from the stents had comparable anticancer activity to pure DTX against oesophageal cancer cells (KYSE-30). This research demonstrates that the dip-coating technique can be considered as a promising approach for the fabrication of drug-eluting stents (DESs) for oesophageal cancer treatment.

Safety and outcomes after oesophagectomy in southern New Zealand: a 25-year audit of a low volume centre

BACKGROUND

Over the last 2 decades, outcomes for oesophageal cancer have improved due to advances in surgical and oncological practice. Optimizing outcomes by centralization of oesophagectomy to high-volume centres has been observed. The aim of this study was to establish if technical and oncological outcomes after oesophagectomy in southern New Zealand are comparable to recent benchmarks.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing oesophagectomy for cancer and benign pathology at Dunedin Hospital from 1995 to 2019 were prospectively audited. For malignant cases, histology was obtained retrospectively along with details of neo-adjuvant and adjuvant therapy. The primary outcome was disease-specific survival, stratified by time, resection margin, and TNM staging. Secondary outcomes included mortality and morbidity of oesophagectomy. Complications were graded using the Clavien-Dindo classification.

RESULTS

Oesophagectomy was performed in 108 patients, and 99 patients had surgery for oesophageal malignancy. The median survival was 35.3 (95% confidence interval (CI) 30.0-93.4) months and the 5-year survival overall was 41.7%. Comparing survival in patients undergoing oesophagectomy up to 2006 and afterwards showed an improvement in 5-year survival (30.3%, 95% CI (14.2-60.0) versus 47.8%, 95% CI (32.5, not reached), respectively, P = 0.041). There were two perioperative deaths (1.8%), six clinical anastomotic leaks (5.5%), four anastomotic strictures (3.7%) and five chylothoraces (4.6%).

CONCLUSION

This 25-year survey of oesophagectomy in southern New Zealand audits the results of a low volume centre, where a variety of neo-adjuvant treatments have been used. Despite this, perioperative morbidity, mortality and survival are comparable to those achieved by international high-volume centres.

Long-term survival after minimally invasive resection versus open pancreaticoduodenectomy for periampullary cancers: a systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression

BACKGROUND

It remains unclear whether minimally invasive pancreaticoduodenectomy (MIPD) and open pancreaticoduodenectomy (OPD) influences long-term survival in periampullary cancers. This review aims evaluate long-term survival between MIPD and OPD for periampullary cancers.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed to identify studies comparing long-term survival after MIPD and OPD. The I₂ test was used to test for statistical heterogeneity and publication bias using Egger test. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed for all-cause 5-year (main outcome) and 3-year survival, and disease-specific 5-year and 3-year survival. Meta-regression was performed for the 5-year and 3-year survival outcomes with adjustment for study (region, design, case matching), hospital (centre volume), patient (ASA grade, gender, age), and tumor (stage, neoadjuvant therapy, subtype (i.e. ampullary, distal bile duct, duodenal, pancreatic)). Sensitivity analyses performed on studies including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) only.

RESULTS

The review identified 31 relevant studies. Among all 58,622 patients, 8716 (14.9%) underwent MIPD and 49,875 (85.1%) underwent OPD. Pooled analysis revealed similar 5-year overall survival after MIPD compared with OPD (HR: 0.78, 95% CI 0.50-1.22, p = 0.2). Meta-regression indicated case matching, and ASA Grade II and III as confounding covariates. The statistical heterogeneity was limited (I₂ = 12, χ² = 0.26) and the funnel plot was symmetrical both according to visual and statistical testing (Egger test = 0.32). Sensitivity subset analyses for PDAC demonstrated similar 5-year overall survival after MIPD compared with OPD (HR 0.69, 95% CI: 0.32-1.50, p = 0.3).

CONCLUSION

Long-term survival after MIPD is non-inferior to OPD. Thus, MIPD can be recommended as a standard surgical approach for periampullary cancers.

Impact of a Long Linear Staplers on the Incidence of Stricture after Triangulating Esophagogastric Anastomosis

BACKGROUND

Various techniques have been reported for esophagogastric anastomosis to prevent anastomotic leakage. Recently, not only postoperative anastomotic leakage but also anastomotic stricture is considered important because stricture contributes to the patient's postoperative quality of life. However, the best procedure for anastomosis has not been established.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authors divided 101 patients with thoracic or abdominal esophageal cancer who underwent cervical triangulating esophagogastric anastomosis using a linear stapler between May 2017 and May 2020 into 2 groups: surgery with a short (45 mm) linear stapler (SS group, n=59) or a long (60 mm) stapler (LS group, n=42). The frequencies of anastomotic leakage and stricture were compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

The incidence of anastomotic leakage and stricture without leakage were significantly lower in the LS versus SS group (respectively: leakage: 15% vs. 0%, P=0.01; stricture: 36% vs. 7%, P=0.01). A short linear stapler and anastomotic leakage were independent risk factors for anastomotic stricture in the multivariate analysis (short stapler: odds ratio, 3.27; 95% confidence interval, 1.08-9.9; P=0.03; anastomotic leakage: odds ratio, 2.78; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-8.5; P=0.04).

CONCLUSION

A long linear stapler is preferable for cervical triangulating esophagogastric anastomosis.

Comparison of Esophagectomy outcomes between a National Center, a National Audit Collaborative, and an International database using the Esophageal Complications Consensus Group (ECCG) standardized definitions

The ECCG developed a standardized platform for reporting operative complications, with consensus definitions. The Dutch Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer Audit (DUCA) published a national comparison against these benchmarks. This study compares ECCG data from the Irish National Center (INC) with both published benchmark studies. All patients undergoing multimodal therapy or surgery with curative intent from 2014 to 2018 inclusive were studied, with data recorded prospectively and entered onto a secure online database (Esodata.org). 219 patients (mean age 67; 77% male) underwent open resection, 66.6% via transthoracic en bloc resection. 30-day and 90-day mortality were 0.0 and 0.9%,nrespectively. Anastomotic leak rate was 5.4%, pneumonia 18.2%, respiratory failure 10%, ARDS 2.7%, atrial dysrhythmia 22.8%, recurrent nerve injury 3%, and delirium in 5% of patients. Compared with both ECCG and DUCA, where MIE constituted 47 and 86% of surgical approaches, respectively, overall complications were similar, as were severity of complications; however, anastomotic leak rate was several-fold less, and mortality was significantly lower (P < 0.001). In this consecutive series and comparative audit with benchmark averages from the ECCG and DUCA publications, a low mortality and anastomotic leak rate were the key differential findings. Although not risk stratified, the severity of complications from this 'open' series is consistent with series containing large numbers of total or hybrid MIE, highlighting a need to adhere to these strictly defined definitions in further prospective research and randomized studies.

Modern oncological and operative outcomes in oesophageal cancer: the St. James's hospital experience

BACKGROUND

Oesophageal cancer has a reputation for poor survival, and a relatively high risk of major postoperative morbidity and mortality. Encouragingly, a recent international cancer registry study reports a doubling of survival outcomes in Ireland over the last 20 years. This study focused on both oncologic and operative outcomes in patients treated with curative intent requiring surgery at a high-volume center.

METHODS

All patients undergoing surgery or multimodal therapy with curative intent from 2009 to 2018 were studied. All data was recorded prospectively and maintained internally. The period 2009-2013 was compared with 2014-2018 to monitor any change in trends.

RESULTS

Four hundred and seventy-five patients (adenocarcinoma 77%, mean age 65; 76% male; 64% neoadjuvant therapy) underwent open surgical resection, 54% via en bloc 2-stage, 19.8% en bloc 3-stage, and 26.5% by a transhiatal approach. New onset atrial fibrillation was the commonest index complication, in 108 (22.7%), 80 (18%) developed suspected pneumonia/respiratory tract infection, 20 (4.2%) an anastomotic leak, and 25 (5.2%) a chyle leak. The 90-day mortality rate was 1.2% and 0.8% at 30 days. The median survival was 77.17 months, with a 5-year survival of 56%.

CONCLUSION

Consistent with registry data on population survival for oesophageal cancer, this study highlights markedly improved survival outcomes in patients treated curatively, reflecting international trends, as well as low mortality rates; however, cardiorespiratory complications remain significant.

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.

Pyloric distensibility measurement after gastric surgery: Which surgeries are associated with pylorospasm?

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

History of gastric surgery is found in 10% of patients with gastroparesis, and vagal lesion is often suspected to be the cause of pylorospasm. Recently, pyloric distensibility measurement using the EndoFLIP^® system showed that pylorospasm was present in 30%-50% of gastroparetic patients. Our objective was to assess whether pylorospasm, diagnosed using EndoFLIP^® system was observed in three different types of gastric surgeries: antireflux surgery, sleeve gastrectomy, and esophagectomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Pyloric distensibility and pressure were measured using the EndoFLIP^® system in 43 patients from two centers (18 antireflux surgery, 16 sleeve gastrectomy, and nine esophagectomy) with dyspeptic symptoms after gastric surgery, and in 21 healthy volunteers. Altered pyloric distensibility was defined as distensibility below 10 mm² /mm Hg as previously reported.

RESULTS

Compared to healthy volunteers (distensibility: 25.2 ± 2.4 mm² /mm Hg; pressure: 9.7 ± 4.4 mm Hg), pyloric distensibility was decreased in 61.1% of patients in the antireflux surgery group (14.5 ± 3.4 mm² /mm Hg; P < .01) and 75.0% of patients in the esophagectomy group (10.8 ± 2.1 mm² /mm Hg; P < .05), while pyloric pressure was only increased in the antireflux surgery group (18.9 ± 2.2 mm Hg; P < .01). Pyloric distensibility and pressure were similar in healthy volunteers and in sleeve gastrectomy (distensibility: 20.3 ± 3.8 mm² /mm Hg; pressure: 15.8 ± 1.6 mm Hg) groups, with decreased pyloric distensibility affecting 18.7% of sleeve gastrectomy patients.

CONCLUSION

Antireflux surgery and esophagectomy were associated with pylorospasm although pylorospasm was not found in all patients. Sleeve gastrectomy was not associated with altered pyloric distensibility nor altered pyloric pressure.

A systematic review and network meta-analysis of different surgical approaches for pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive pancreaticoduodenectomy (MIPD) is a demanding surgical procedure, thus explaining its slow expansion and limited popularity amongst Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary (HPB) surgeons. However, three main advantages of robotic assisted pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) including improved dexterity, 3D vision less surgical fatigue, may overcome some of the hurdles and ultimately lead to a wider adoption. This systematic review and network meta-analysis aims to evaluate the current literature on open and MIPD.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted for studies reporting robotic, laparoscopic and open surgery for PD. Network meta-analysis of intraoperative (operating time, blood loss, transfusion rate), postoperative (overall and major complications, pancreatic fistula, delayed gastric emptying, length of hospital stay) and oncological outcomes (R0 resection, lymphadenectomy) were performed.

RESULTS

Sixty-one studies including 62,529 patients were included in the network meta-analysis, of which 3% (n = 2131) were totally robotic (TR) and 10% (n = 6514) were totally laparoscopic (TL). There were no significant differences between surgical techniques for major complications, overall and grade B/C fistula, biliary leak, mortality and R0 resections. Transfusion rates were significantly lower in TR compared to TL and open. Operative time for TR was longer compared with open and TL. Both TL and TR were associated with significantly lower rates of wound infections, pulmonary complications, shorter length of stay and higher lymph nodes examined when compared to open. TR was associated with significantly lower conversion rates than TL.

CONCLUSION

In summary, this network meta-analysis highlights the variability in techniques within MIPD and compares other variations to the conventional open PD. Current evidence appears to demonstrate MIPD, both laparoscopic and robotic techniques are associated with improved rates of surgical site infections, pulmonary complications, and a shorter hospital stay, with no compromise in oncological outcomes for cancer resections.

Complications After Esophagectomy

Esophagectomy is the mainstay for treating esophageal cancers and other pathology. Even with refinements in surgical techniques and the introduction of minimally invasive approaches, the overall morbidity remains formidable. Complications, if not quickly recognized, can lead to significant long-term sequelae and even death. Vigilance with a high degree of suspicion remains the surgeon's greatest ally when caring for a patient who has recently undergone an esophagectomy. In this review, we highlight different approaches in dealing with anastomotic leaks, chyle leaks, cardiopulmonary complications, and later functional issues after esophagectomy.

A Review of Self-Expanding Esophageal Stents for the Palliation Therapy of Inoperable Esophageal Malignancies

Esophageal cancer is a very deadly disease, killing more than 15,000 people in the United States annually. Almost 400,000 new cases happen in the worldwide every year. More than 50% esophageal cancer patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage when they need an esophageal stent to open the blocked esophagus for feeding and drinking. Esophageal stents have evolved in stages over the years. Current clinically used stents commonly include stainless steel or nitinol self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) and self-expandable plastic stent (SEPS). There are many choices of different types of stents and sizes, with fierce competition among manufacturers. However, current stent technology, whether uncovered, partially covered, fully covered SEMS or SEPS, has their own advantages to solve the dysphagia, stricture, and fistula problems, but they also cause some clinical complications. The ideal stent remains elusive. New 3D printing technique may bring new promising potential to manufacturing personalized esophageal stents. Drug-eluting stents could be the new avenue to do more than just pry open a stricture or cover a defect in the esophageal lumen, a possibility of proving local anticancer therapy simultaneously. Additionally, the lack of esophageal cancer animal models also hinders the progress of stent development. This paper reviews these topics for a comprehensive understanding of this field. In a conclusion, the ultimate goal of the future esophageal stent would have multifunction to treat the underlying conditions and restore esophageal function to near normal.

The optimal neoadjuvant treatment of locally advanced esophageal cancer

Esophagectomy is the cornerstone of intentionally curative treatment in patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer. Neoadjuvant treatments have been introduced to minimize the risk of development of locoregional- and/or distant recurrences. Chemotherapy is used based on the results of the MAGIC- and the OEO2-trials and chemoradiotherapy became part of standard treatment after the publication of the CROSS-trial. Although several studies have compared the efficacy of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and chemoradiotherapy, no robust evidence on the optimal neoadjuvant treatment has been obtained as yet. Several studies indirectly comparing both modalities suggest a benefit for chemoradiotherapy in the number of pathologically complete responders, radical resection rate and possibly even in overall survival. Large randomized controlled trials like the Neo-AEGIS-, ESOPEC- and NeXT-trials are currently addressing this topic. A relatively new aspect of esophageal cancer treatment is the administration of monoclonal antibodies. Several monoclonal antibodies have been tested in, mostly, advanced esophageal cancer treatment. Cetuximab has also been tested as addition to neoadjuvant- and definitive treatment in patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer, showing mixed results. This review aims at providing an overview of the currently available neoadjuvant treatments in esophageal cancer.

Improving antitumor outcomes for palliative intratumoral injection therapy through lecithin- chitosan nanoparticles loading paclitaxel- cholesterol complex

Background

Intratumoral injection is a palliative treatment that aims at further improvement in the survival and quality of life of patients with advanced or recurrent carcinomas, or cancer patients with severe comorbidities or those with a poor performance status.

Methods

In this study, a solvent-injection method was used to prepare paclitaxel–cholesterol complex-loaded lecithin–chitosan nanoparticles (PTX-CH-loaded LCS_NPs) for intratumoral injection therapy, and the physicochemical properties of NPs were well characterized.

Results

The particle size and zeta potential of PTX-CH-loaded LCS_NPs were 142.83±0.25 nm and 13.50±0.20 mV, respectively. Release behavior of PTX from PTX-CH-loaded LCS_NPs showed a pH-sensitive pattern. The result of cell uptake assay showed that PTX-CH-loaded LCS_NPs could effectively enter cells via the energy-dependent caveolae-mediated endocytosis and macropinocytosis in company with the Golgi apparatus. Meanwhile, PTX-CH-loaded LCS_NPs had a better ability to induce cell apoptosis than PTX solution. The in vivo antitumor results suggested that PTX-CH-loaded LCS_NPs effectively inhibited mouse mammary cancer growth and metastasis to distant organs and significantly improved the survival rate of tumor-bearing mice by intratumoral administration.

Conclusion

In general, our study demonstrated that PTX-CH-loaded LCS_NPs used for palliative treatment by intratumoral injection showed improved safety and antitumor efficacy, which provided an alternative approach in the field of palliative chemotherapy.

Safety and efficacy of hydroxyethyl starch 6% 130/0.4/9 solution versus 5% human serum albumin in thoracic esophagectomy with 3-field lymph nodes dissection

PURPOSE

We investigated the safety and efficacy of administering hydroxyethyl starch 6% 130/0.4/9 (HES130/0.4/9) versus 5% human serum albumin (HSA), perioperatively, to patients undergoing thoracic esophagectomy with 3-field lymph-node dissection for esophageal cancer.

METHODS

The subjects of this study were 262 patients, scheduled to undergo thoracic esophagectomy for esophageal cancer, who were assigned to one of two groups based on the fluid replacement therapy. We compared the intraoperative and immediate postoperative hemodynamics and incidence of complications in the two groups.

RESULTS

Neither group suffered any adverse events. No significant differences were observed in systolic/diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, incidence of postoperative complications, postoperative urine output, or serum creatinine levels, between the groups. A mild postoperative increase (×1.5 increase) in serum creatinine levels was seen in 9.5% and 9.5% of patients in the HSA and HES130/0.4/9 groups, respectively (p = 0.99), and a moderate postoperative increase (×2.0 increase) was seen in 4.4% and 3.1%, respectively (p = 0.84). Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that the administration of hydroxyethyl starch was not associated with a postoperative increase in serum creatinine levels.

CONCLUSION

Hydroxyethyl starch 6% 130/0.4/9 was well tolerated and comparable to albumin with respect to its effect on renal function during thoracic esophagectomy with 3-field lymph-node dissection.

Fluorescent image-based evaluation of gastric conduit perfusion in a preclinical ischemia model

Background

This study evaluated near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent images to assess gastric conduit perfusion after an esophagectomy in a porcine model of gastric conduit ischemia. The time necessary to acquire a sufficient fluorescent signal to confirm ischemia in the gastric conduit after peripheral or central venous injection of indocyanine green (ICG) was also investigated.

Methods

A reversible gastric conduit ischemic pig model was established through ligation and release of the right gastroepiploic artery (RGEA, n=10). The esophageal reconstruction was performed to create an esophagogastric anastomosis. After ligation of the RGEA, ICG was injected into an ear vein (n=6) or the inferior vena cava (n=4). Under fluorescent imaging system guidance, the fluorescent signal-to-background ratio (SBR) in the gastric conduit or esophagus was measured during the entire procedure. We estimated the time necessary to acquire fluorescent signals in the gastric conduit using two different injection routes.

Results

When the RGEA was ligated, the SBR in the esophagus was significantly higher than that in the gastric conduit (P=0.02), and the SBR in the gastric conduit recovered within 180 s after release of the ligation. The time to acquire a fluorescent signal was faster with a central route than with a peripheral route (P=0.04).

Conclusions

We successfully created an ischemic animal model of the gastric conduit. Using this animal model, we evaluated the sensitivity and applicability of the fluorescent imaging system for observation and identification of ischemic areas during an esophagectomy.

Cervical esophago-gastric anastomosis using linear cutter stapler in esophageal cancer

BACKGROUND

Anastomosis in gastrointestinal (GI) surgery is a commonly performed procedure. Irrelevant various methods of intestinal anastomosis were followed - recent advance is the use of a stapler as a device for GI anastomosis. Due to the use of staplers, technical failures are a rarity, anastomosis is more consistent and can be used at difficult locations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

: Between 2008 and August 2016, 75 patients with esophagus or gastroesophageal junction carcinoma underwent curative intent resection either via a right posterolateral thoracotomy (TTE) or transhiatal esophagectomy or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery with linear stapler anastomosis.

RESULTS

The average follow-up was approximately 9 months. Anastomotic leakage was observed in three patients. On follow-up, two patients presented with difficulty in swallowing, and on upper GI endoscopy, they were found to have anastomotic site stricture. There was no perioperative mortality.

CONCLUSION

The linear-stapled esophagogastric anastomosis is a safe and effective anastomotic technique, which can decrease the rate of leak, postoperative dysphagia, and anastomotic stricture. As in this technique only two linear staplers are used in comparison to other techniques where three or more staplers are used, it is also cost-effective. The procedure deserves more attention and further application.

Synchronous Esophageal and Lung Cancer

Synchronous lung and esophageal cancers are rare but represent a unique challenge to thoracic surgeons. The literature is limited but series describe long-term survival with curative surgery for concomitant esophageal and lung cancer. Preoperative risk assessment is critical because surgical resection of both cancers requires adequate cardiopulmonary function and performance status. Chemotherapy and radiation are used as adjuvant therapy or as primary treatment of unresectable lesions. Although long-term survival for patients with concomitant lung and esophageal cancer is lower than that of patients with either one alone, survival with curative surgery is higher than that of patients with metastatic disease of either primary.

Preoperative Hyperthermia Combined with Chemotherapy and Irradiation for the Treatment of Patients with Esophageal Carcinoma

Aims and Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the combined effects of hyperthermia, chemotherapy and irradiation on esophageal cancer.

Methods and material

Since 1978, we have clinically applied hyperthermia combined with chemotherapy and irradiation (HCR therapy), to patients with carcinoma of the esophagus. The clinical results of 136 patients receiving preoperative HCR therapy were then compared with those of 107 cases undergoing preoperative chemo-radiotherapy (CR).

Results

A histological examination of the resected esophagus after preoperative treatment revealed that 65.4% and 50.5% of the patients responded markedly (no viable cancer cells) and moderately (more than two thirds of all cancer cells destroyed) to HCR and CR therapies, respectively (p <0.05). The five-year survival rates were 22.3% and 13.7% in the HCR and CR groups, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant (p <0.01). In particular, for the patients classified as TNM Stages III and IV, a significantly longer survival period was obtained with HCR therapy (p <0.05). In addition, no severe side effects were encountered in the patients given just hyperthermia.

Conclusion

Our clinical results suggest that preoperative hyperthermo-chemo-radiotherapy shows great promise for treatment of patients with advanced carcinoma of the esophagus.

Single-Agent Chemotherapy with Vinorelbine for Pretreated or Metastatic Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Esophagus

Aims and Background

At least half of the patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus (SCCE) present at diagnosis with metastatic disease, and most patients in a locally advanced phase will develop metastases despite potentially curative local therapy. Thus, the majority of patients with SCCE will become candidate for palliative chemotherapy. Only a few drugs have demonstrated moderate activity (>15%) against SCCE. The main purpose of this phase II trial was to assess the activity of vinorelbine, a semisynthetic vinca alkaloid with a wide spectrum of action, in advanced or relapsed SCCE.

Methods

Seventeen patients were included in the trial. Eleven of them had already received chemotherapy (cisplatin and fluorouracil) and/or radiotherapy at the time of the first diagnosis All patients were treated with vinorelbine at the dose of 30 mg/m2 every two weeks.

Results

Sixteen of the 17 patients enrolled in the trial were assessable for activity: partial responses were observed in 4 of the 16 (25%), and 3 of them were pretreated patients. A significant improvement of dysphagia was obtained in 4 of 11 symptomatic patients. Toxicity was mild, with only one episode of grade 4 neutropenia and constipation.

Conclusions

In our experience, single-agent vinorelbine is active against SCCE. It was also active in patients previously treated with cisplatin and fluorouracil. The good tolerability and the possibility of relieving symptoms such as dysphagia strongly suggest the addition of vinorelbine to combination regimens with cisplatin as front-line chemotherapy for SCCE.

Pylorus drainage procedures in thoracoabdominal esophagectomy - a single-center experience and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Pylorotomy and pyloroplasty in thoracoabdominal esophagectomy are routinely performed in many high-volume centers to prevent delayed gastric emptying (DGE) due to truncal vagotomy. Currently, controversy remains regarding the need for these practices. The present study aimed to determine the value and role of pyloric drainage procedures in esophagectomy with gastric replacement.

METHODS

A retrospective review of prospectively collected data was performed for all consecutive patients who underwent thoracoabdominal resection of the esophagus between January 2009 and December 2016 at the Katharinenhospital in Stuttgart, Germany. Clinicopathologic features and surgical outcomes were evaluated with a focus on postoperative nutrition and gastric emptying.

RESULTS

The study group included 170 patients who underwent thoracoabdominal esophageal resection with a gastric conduit using the Ivor Lewis approach. The median age of the patients was 64 years. Most patients were male (81%), and most suffered from adenocarcinoma of the esophagus (75%). The median hospital stay was 20 days, and the 30-day hospital death rate was 2.9%. According to the department standard, pylorotomy, pyloroplasty, or other pyloric drainage procedures were not performed in any of the patients. Overall, 28/170 patients showed clinical signs of DGE (16.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

In the literature, the rate of DGE after thoracoabdominal esophagectomy is reported to be approximately 15%, even with the use of pyloric drainage procedures. This rate is comparable to that reported in the present series in which no pyloric drainage procedures were performed. Therefore, we believe that pyloric drainage procedures may be unwarranted in thoracoabdominal esophagectomy. However, future randomized trials are needed to ultimately confirm this supposition.

Transhiatal vs. Transthoracic Esophagectomy: A NSQIP Analysis of Postoperative Outcomes and Risk Factors for Morbidity

BACKGROUND

Both transhiatal esophagectomy (THE) and transthoracic esophagectomy (TTE) are accepted procedures for esophageal resection. We aimed to compare postoperative outcomes between these procedures and identify risk factors for morbidity.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Adult patients who underwent THE or TTE between 2005 and 2014 were included. Postoperative morbidity, length of stay, and 30-day mortality were compared. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine risk factors for complications, and likelihood ratio tests were used to assess whether the effect of each risk factor was different across THE and TTE.

RESULTS

A total of 4053 patients were included, 2362 (58.3%) underwent TTE and 1691 (41.7%) underwent THE. TTE was associated with higher incidences of postoperative pneumonia and bleeding requiring transfusion. THE had higher incidences of superficial wound infection, deep wound infection, urinary tract infection, and sepsis. There were no significant differences in occurrence of anastomotic leak (THE 7.6% vs. TTE 9.4%, p = 0.35) or 30-day mortality (THE 2.3% vs. TTE 2.5%, p = 0.63). Female gender, black race, hypertension, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, partially or fully dependent functional status, and an ASA score ≥ 3 were independently associated with postoperative complications. The impact of the risk factors on morbidity was similar across both procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

THE and TTE have similar incidence of anastomotic leak and 30-day mortality. The impact of gender, race, and patients' comorbidities on postoperative complications is similar across both types of esophagectomy.

Minimally invasive esophagectomy and thoraco-abdominal two-field lymph node dissection for thoracic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma-antegrade dissection of the thoracic esophagus

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive esophagectomy has been gaining increasing interest in management of early stage esophageal cancers. Similar oncological principles including radical removal of the tumor as well as systemic lymph node dissection should be observed, regardless of the surgical approach. Improvement in surgical techniques would help achieve comparable oncological outcomes while help patients benefit from the minimally invasive approach. This video introduces an antegrade dissection which is an alternative to the traditional retrograde esophagectomy for squamous cell carcinoma of the thoracic esophagus.

METHODS

A 54-year-old male patient had a cT1bN0M0 (stage I) squamous cell carcinoma in the middle thoracic esophagus. The surgery selected was thoracoscopic-laparoscopic three-hole esophagectomy with thoraco-abdominal two-field lymph-adenectomy. In the chest part of the procedure, dissection was carried out in an antegrade fashion, from the apex of the chest downwards to the diaphragm. The thoracic esophagus and the tumor was resected en-bloc with surrounding connective tissue. Thorough lymph node dissection was carefully completed, with special attention paid to those along the bilateral recurrent laryngeal nerves.

RESULTS

The patient recovered uneventfully and was discharged on postoperative day 6. Pathologic study revealed a pT1bN1M0 (stage IIb) tumor, with lymphatic involvement detected in a right recurrent nerve node.

CONCLUSIONS

With the help of minimally invasive approach, rapid recovery from the extensive esophagectomy could be expected. However, it is critically important to make sure that the same oncological principles including a radical resection margin and a thorough lymph node dissection should also be observed. For the thoracic part of the procedure, an antegrade dissection could help achieve this goal, while making surgical maneuver simpler and safer.

Chemoradiotherapy versus chemoradiotherapy plus surgery for esophageal cancer

BACKGROUND

Please see Appendix 4 for a glossary of terms.The outcome of patients with esophageal cancer is generally poor. Although multimodal therapy is standard, there is conflicting evidence regarding the addition of esophagectomy to chemoradiotherapy.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the effectiveness and safety of chemoradiotherapy plus surgery with that of chemoradiotherapy alone in people with nonmetastatic esophageal carcinoma.

SEARCH METHODS

We performed a computerized search for relevant studies, up to Feburary 2017, on the CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and Embase databases using MeSH headings and keywords. We searched five online databases of clinical trials, handsearched conference proceedings, and screened reference lists of retrieved papers.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing chemoradiotherapy plus esophagectomy with chemoradiotherapy alone for localized esophageal carcinoma. We excluded RCTs comparing chemotherapy or radiotherapy alone with esophagectomy.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently selected studies, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias and the quality of the evidence, using standardized Cochrane methodological procedures. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS), estimated with Hazard Ratio (HR). Secondary outcomes, estimated with risk ratio (RR), were local and distant progression-free survival (PFS), quality of life (QoL), treatment-related mortality and morbidity, and use of salvage procedures for dysphagia. Data were analyzed using a random effects model in Review Manager 5.3 software.

MAIN RESULTS

From 2667 references, we identified two randomized studies, in six reports, that included 431 participants. All participants were clinically staged to have at least T3 and/or node positive thoracic esophageal carcinoma, 93% of which was squamous cell histology. The risk of methodological bias of the included studies was low to moderate.High-quality evidence found the addition of esophagectomy had little or no difference on overall survival (HR 0.99, 95% CI 0.79 to 1.24; P = 0.92; I² = 0%; two trials). Neither study reported PFS, therefore, freedom from loco-regional relapse was used as a proxy. Moderate-quality evidence suggested that the addition of esophagectomy probably improved freedom from locoregional relapse (HR 0.55, 95% CI 0.39 to 0.76; P = 0.0004; I² = 0%; two trials), but low-quality evidence suggested it may increase the risk of treatment-related mortality (RR 5.11, 95% CI 1.74 to 15.02; P = 0.003; I² = 2%; two trials).The other pre-specified outcomes (quality of life, treatment-related toxicity, and use of salvage procedures for dysphagia) were reported by only one study, which found very low-quality evidence that use of esophagectomy was associated with reduced short-term QoL (MD 0.93, 95% CI 0.24 to 1.62), and low-quality evidence that it reduced use of salvage procedures for dysphagia (HR 0.52, 95% CI 0.36 to 0.75). Neither study compared treatment-related morbidity between treatment groups.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Based on the available evidence, the addition of esophagectomy to chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, provides little or no difference on overall survival, and may be associated with higher treatment-related mortality. The addition of esophagectomy probably delays locoregional relapse, however, this end point was not well defined in the included studies. It is undetermined whether these results can be applied to the treatment of adenocarcinomas, tumors involving the distal esophagus and gastro-esophageal junction, and to people with poor response to chemoradiation.

Support Vector Machines Model of Computed Tomography for Assessing Lymph Node Metastasis in Esophageal Cancer with Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy

Objective

The aim of this study was to diagnose lymph node metastasis of esophageal cancer by support vector machines model based on computed tomography.

Materials and Methods

A total of 131 esophageal cancer patients with preoperative chemotherapy and radical surgery were included. Various indicators (tumor thickness, tumor length, tumor CT value, total number of lymph nodes, and long axis and short axis sizes of largest lymph node) on CT images before and after neoadjuvant chemotherapy were recorded. A support vector machines model based on these CT indicators was built to predict lymph node metastasis.

Results

Support vector machines model diagnosed lymph node metastasis better than preoperative short axis size of largest lymph node on CT. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves were 0.887 and 0.705, respectively.

Conclusions

The support vector machine model of CT images can help diagnose lymph node metastasis in esophageal cancer with preoperative chemotherapy.

Survival comparison between radical surgery and definitive chemoradiation in 267 esophageal squamous cell carcinomas in a single institution: A propensity-matched study

OBJECTIVE

To compare radical surgery with definitive chemoradiation (CRT) for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma using propensity score (PS) matching at our single institution.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 386 consecutive, surgically treated and 243 CRT-treated cases between 2001 and 2014 were analyzed. PS was calculated using multivariable analysis (logistic regression) for pairs of variables such as treatment time, age, sex, primary tumor location, clinical stage, and clinical T- and N-stage for patients after excluding clinical T4 and M1 cases. According to PS, 133 surgically-treated and 134 CRT-treated cases were selected randomly by software.

RESULTS

The patients' median age was 68 years in the CRT group and 71 years in the surgery group. Clinical stage II-III, T3, N0 (according to the 7th American Joint Committee on Cancer-2009), and upper plus middle thoracic esophageal disease were seen in 68%, 44%, 54%, and 59%, respectively, in the CRT group and 64%, 47%, 55%, and 64%, respectively, in the surgery group. The 3- and 5-year overall survival was 47.1% and 34.0% in the CRT group and 68.3% and 54.4% in the surgery group (p = 0.0019). The 3- and 5-year progression-free survival was 45.3% and 38.8% in the CRT group and 61.1% and 54.4% in the surgery group (p = 0.022).

CONCLUSION

CRT may be inferior to surgery in survival, although a selection bias for patients selected for a non-operative approach cannot be excluded, especially since surgery is the standard of care at this institution. A prospective randomized clinical trial will be necessary to draw a definite conclusion.

Esophageal cancer's 100 most influential manuscripts: a bibliometric analysis

Bibliometric analysis highlights key topics and publications that have shaped the understanding and management of esophageal cancer (EC). Here, the 100 most cited manuscripts in the field of EC are analyzed. The Thomson Reuters Web of Science database with the search terms 'esophageal cancer' or 'esophageal carcinoma' or 'oesophageal cancer' or 'oesophageal carcinoma' or 'gastroscopy' was used to identify all English language full manuscripts for the study. The 100 most cited papers were further analyzed by topic, journal, author, year, and institution. A total of 121,556 eligible papers were returned and the median (range) citation number was 406.5 (1833 to 293). The most cited paper focused on the role of perioperative chemotherpy in EC (1833 citations). Gastroenterology published the highest number of papers (n = 15, 6362 citations) and The New England Journal of Medicine received the most citations (n = 12, 12125 citations). The country and year with the greatest number of publications were the USA (n = 50), and 1998, 1999, and 2000 (n = 7). The most ubiquitous topic was the pathology of EC (n = 66) followed by management of EC (n = 54), and studies related to EC prognosis (n = 44). The most cited manuscripts highlighted the pathology, management, and prognosis of EC and this bibliometirc review provides the most influential references serving as a guide to popular research themes.

Laparoscopic retrosternal gastric pull-up for fistulized mediastinal mass

We describe the case of a patient successfully reconstructed with laparoscopic retrosternal gastric pull-up after esophagectomy for unresectable posterior mediastinal inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor, eroding into the esophagus and compressing the airways. A partial esophagectomy with esophagostomy was performed for treatment of esophageal pleural fistula and empyema, while the airways were managed with the placement of an endobronchial stent. Gastrointestinal reconstruction was performed using a laparoscopic approach to create a retrosternal tunnel for gastric conduit pull-up and cervical anastomosis. The patient was discharged uneventfully after 6 d, and has done very well at home with normal diet.

The effect of paclitaxel-eluting covered metal stents versus covered metal stents in a rabbit esophageal squamous carcinoma model

Background

The use of self-expanding metallic stents (SEMSs) is the current treatment of choice for malignant gastrointestinal obstructions. However, these stents can promote only drainage and have no antitumor effect. Some studies have reported that drug-eluting SEMSs may have tumor inhibition potential. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency and safety of paclitaxel-eluting SEMSs (PEMSs) in rabbit esophageal cancer models.

Materials and methods

A PEMS was covered with a paclitaxel-incorporated membrane, in which the concentration of paclitaxel was 10% (wt/vol). The rabbit models were created endoscopically. Then, a PEMS or SEMS was endoscopically inserted into the rabbit esophagus. Two weeks after stent placement, the rabbits were sacrificed, and we evaluated the tumor volume, area of the wall defect, area of the tumor under endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) before and after stent placement, status of the proximal esophageal obstruction, tumor metastasis food-intake and weight loss.

Results

A total of 26 rabbits received stent insertion and survived until sacrifice, and migration occurred in 4 cases, 3 in SEMS group and 1 in PEMS group. For the remaining 22 rabbits, at the sacrificed time, the average tumor volume was 7.00±4.30 cm³ in the SEMS group and 0.94±1.51 cm³ in the PEMS group (P<0.05). The area of the esophageal wall defect was 0.70±0.63 cm² in the SEMS group and 0.17±0.16 cm² in the PEMS group (P<0.05). The tumor area under EUS was 4.40±1.47 cm² in the SEMS group and 1.30±1.06 cm² in the PEMS group (P<0.05). At the time of stent placement, tumor area under EUS was comparable in the two groups. Other indices did not significantly differ between the two groups.

Conclusions

SEMS and PEMS are both safe and effective to relieve dysphagia in rabbit esophageal cancer models. A PEMS can serve as an alternative tool for advanced esophageal cancer that may inhibit tumor growth by serving as a drug sustained-release platform. Clinical trials of the stent are warranted in the future.

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.

Treatment results of two-stage operation for the patients with esophageal cancer concomitant with liver dysfunction

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to clarify the usefulness of two-stage operation for the patients with esophageal cancer who have liver dysfunction.

METHODS

Eight patients with esophageal cancer concomitant with liver dysfunction who underwent two-stage operation were analyzed. The patients initially underwent an esophagectomy, a cervical esophagostomy and a tube jejunostomy, and reconstruction with gastric tube was performed after the recovery of patients' condition.

RESULTS

The average time of the 1(st) and 2(nd) stage operation was 410.0 min and 438.9 min, respectively. The average amount of blood loss in the 1(st) and 2(nd) stage operation was 433.5 ml and 1556.8 ml, respectively. The average duration between the operations was 29.8 days. The antesternal route was selected for 5 patients (62.5%) and the retrosternal route was for 3 patients (37.5%). In the 1(st) stage operation, no postoperative complications were observed, while, complications developed in 5 (62.5%) patients, including 4 anastomotic leakages, after the 2(nd) stage operation. Pneumonia was not observed through two-stage operation. No in-hospital death was experienced.

CONCLUSION

A two-stage operation might prevent the occurrence of critical postoperative complications for the patients with esophageal cancer concomitant with liver dysfunction.

Thermogenesis induced by amino acid administration prevents intraoperative hypothermia and reduces postoperative infectious complications after thoracoscopic esophagectomy

Minimally invasive thoracoscopic esophagectomy has potential advantages in minimizing the impairment of respiratory function and reducing surgical stress. However, thoracoscopic esophagectomy occasionally results in anesthesia-induced hypothermia, particularly in cases involving artificial pneumothorax with CO2. Thermogenesis induced by amino acid administration has been reported during anesthesia. Here, we tested the efficacy of amino acid treatment for the prevention of hypothermia, and we investigated the potential of this treatment to reduce postoperative infectious complications after thoracoscopic esophagectomy. We conducted a randomized trial in patients with esophageal cancer who underwent thoracoscopic esophagectomy in the prone position in two groups and analyzed the incidences of hypothermia and surgical complications. One-hundred and thirty patients were randomized. Administration of amino acids resulted in a significant increase in core body temperature. In the saline (n = 60) and amino acid (n = 70) administration groups, 30% and 14.2% of patients, respectively, experienced infectious surgical complications (P = 0.029), and 21.6% and 22.8% of patients, respectively, experienced noninfectious surgical complications (P = 0.86). Univariate analysis revealed that blood loss and amino acid administration were significant factors for infectious surgical complications. Multivariate analysis revealed that amino acid administration was an independent factor reducing infectious surgical complications (P = 0.025, 95% confidence interval: 0.105-0.864). Administration of amino acids prevents hypothermia and reduces postoperative infectious complications after thoracoscopic esophagectomy.

Effect of body mass index on operative outcome after robotic-assisted Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy: retrospective analysis of 129 cases at a single high-volume tertiary care center

The impact of body weight on outcomes after robotic-assisted esophageal surgery for cancer has not been studied. We examined the short-term operative outcomes in patients according to their body mass index following robotic-assisted Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy at a high-volume tertiary-care referral cancer center and evaluated the safety of robotic surgery in patients with an elevated body mass index. A retrospective review of all patients who underwent robotic-assisted Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy between April 2010 and June 2013 for pathologically confirmed distal esophageal cancer was conducted. Patient demographics, clinicopathologic data, and operative outcomes were collected. We stratified body mass index at admission for surgery according to World Health Organization criteria; normal range is defined as a body mass index range of 18.5-24.9 kg/m2. Overweight is defined as a body mass index range of 25.0-29.9 kg/m2 and obesity is defined as a body mass index of 30 kg/m2 and above. Statistics were calculated using Pearson's Chi-square and Pearson's correlation coefficient tests with a P-value of 0.05 or less for significance. One hundred and twenty-nine patients (103 men, 26 women) with median age of 67 (30-84) years were included. The majority of patients, 76% (N = 98) received neoadjuvant therapy. When stratified by body mass index, 28 (22%) were normal weight, 56 (43%) were overweight, and 45 (35%) were obese. All patients had R0 resection. Median operating room time was 407 (239-694) minutes. When stratified by body mass index, medians of operating room time across the normal weight, overweight and obese groups were 387 (254-660) minutes, 395 (310-645) minutes and 445 (239-694), respectively. Median estimated blood loss (EBL) was 150 (25-600) cc. When stratified by body mass index, medians of EBL across the normal weight, overweight and obese groups were 100 (50-500) cc, 150 (25-600) cc and 150 (25-600), respectively. Obesity significantly correlated with longer operating room time (P = 0.05) but without significant increased EBL (P = 0.348). Among the three body mass index groups there was no difference in postoperative complications including thrombotic events (pulmonary embolism and deep venous thrombosis) (P = 0.266), pneumonia (P = 0.189), anastomotic leak (P = 0.090), wound infection (P = 0.390), any cardiac events (P = 0.793) or 30 days mortality (P = 0.414). Our data study demonstrates that patients with esophageal cancer and an elevated body mass index undergoing robotic-assisted Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy have increased operative times but no significantly increased EBL during the procedure. Other potential morbidities did not differ with the robotic approach.

Minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy for esophageal cancer

Esophageal cancer is the malignant tumor arising from the esophagus and has a poor prognosis. Squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma are the main subtypes of esophageal cancer with different risk factors. In the early stage, surgical resection is the most curative treatment modality. However, the procedure is considered an advanced and technically demanding surgery because esophageal cancer surgery includes esophagectomy, lymph node dissection, and a creation of esophageal conduit. Stomach is the commonest organ for the esophageal substitute. In open procedures, pulmonary complications and anastomotic failure are the most severe problems. Minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) has been introduced to decrease the postoperative pulmonary complications, but anastomotic failure remains a serious issue because of the extra-anatomical anastomosis between the esophagus and the conduit in the thorax or the neck.

Optimal surgical approach for esophageal cancer in the era of minimally invasive esophagectomy and neoadjuvant therapy

The optimal surgical technique for the potentially curative treatment of patients with esophageal cancer is still under debate. The transhiatal esophagectomy (THE) with limited lymphadenectomy mainly focuses on a decrease of postoperative morbidity and mortality by preventing a formal thoracotomy. The transthoracic esophagectomy (TTE) with extended two-field lymphadenectomy attempts to improve the radicality of the resection and thus to increase locoregional tumor control, but is associated with increased postoperative morbidity. The recent introduction of different minimally invasive techniques probably decreases postoperative morbidity following TTE, with reduction of especially pulmonary complications, but high-quality evidence is still limited. It is widely agreed that extended lymphadenectomy as performed during TTE provides the benefit of more accurate staging, but its effect on improvement of survival is still debated. The literature on this topic is contradictory and the choice of surgical approach is primarily driven by personal opinions and institutional preferences. Moreover, the available evidence is mainly based on patients who underwent surgery alone without neoadjuvant therapy. Results of recent studies suggest that neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy abolishes any possibly positive effect of extended lymphadenectomy as performed during TTE on survival, but this effect should be confirmed in future research. This review gives an overview and reflects the authors' personal view on the role of TTE and THE in the treatment of potentially curative treatment of patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer in the era of minimally invasive esophagectomy and neoadjuvant treatment and outlines future research perspectives.

Effect of a paclitaxel-eluting metallic stent on rabbit esophagus

The use of self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) is the current treatment of choice for malignant gastrointestinal obstructions. A paclitaxel-eluting metallic SEMS (PEMS) may have an antitumor effect on esophageal tissue. PEMS with 10% paclitaxel or conventional SEMS were inserted into the lower esophagus of rabbits. Following the insertion of the stents for 1, 2, 4 and 6 weeks, the rabbits were sacrificed and the status of the stent insertion was examined, as well as any macroscopic or microscopic mucosal changes in the esophageal tissue. All the rabbits survived until death without any complications. No migration following stent insertion occurred. The number of cases with proximal obstruction increased in a time-dependent manner, and no significant difference was observed between the two groups. Gross histological examination showed similar tissue reaction to the stents at 1, 2 and 4 weeks, and inflammatory cell infiltrating was higher in the SEMS group at 1 and 2 weeks. However, inflammatory cell infiltration was markedly higher in the PEMS group at 4 and 6 weeks. Food-intake and weight were similar in the two groups. The results of the present study demonstrated that PEMS may serve as a safe alternative treatment strategy for esophageal obstruction. Furthermore, PEMS may inhibit the tumor growth of the esophageal wall through inflammatory infiltration and targeted drug delivery. A tumor model will be required in the future for evaluating the prognosis of patients with advanced esophageal carcinoma.

Mediastinal transposition of the omentum reduces infection severity and pharmacy cost for patients undergoing esophagectomy

BACKGROUND

The greater omentum has been found to be immunologically competent in protecting abdominal organs from inflammation. Anastomotic omentoplasty has been used and proven effective in preventing anastomotic leaks after an esophagectomy. However, pulmonary complications are still a substantial problem after an esophagectomy. This study investigated the benefits of mediastinal transposition of the omentum, a modification of the conventional omental wrapping technique, in controlling overall postoperative intrathoracic complications.

METHODS

From January 2010 to March 2015, 208 consecutive patients receiving an open Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy at our institution were retrospectively reviewed. One hundred twenty-one patients with omentum mediastinal transposition were assigned to the transposition group and 87 patients without omental transposition were placed in the non-transposition group. The patients' demographics, postoperative short-term outcomes, and in-hospital cost were documented and analyzed.

RESULTS

Mediastinal transposition of the omentum led to a shorter postoperative hospital stay (14 vs. 16 d, P=0.038) and a lower intrathoracic infection rate (30.6% vs. 48.3%, P=0.009). Intrathoracic infection was milder in the transposition group (P=0.005), though a non-significant was found in overall complications (P=0.071). The multivariate logistic regression analyses identified omentum mediastinal transposition (P=0.007, OR=0.415) as an independent protective factor for postoperative intrathoracic infection. The total in-hospital cost was comparable in both groups (P>0.05), whereas the pharmacy cost was lower in the transposition group than in the non-transposition group (¥21,668 vs. ¥27,012, P=0.010).

CONCLUSIONS

Mediastinal transposition of the omentum decreases the rate and severity of postoperative intrathoracic infection following an open Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy. This result in decreased pharmacy costs, rather than resulting in an increased economic burden sustained by surgical patients.