Clinical Experience of Laparoscopy-Assisted Proximal Gastrectomy with Toupet-Like Partial Fundoplication in Early Gastric Cancer for Preventing Reflux Esophagitis

Evaluating the discrepancies between evidence-based and community standard practices in the endoscopic examination of Barrett's esophagus: a nationwide survey in Japan

BACKGROUND

Barrett's esophagus (BE) is a known precursor of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). EAC is comparatively rare in Japan compared to Western countries, where BE management guidelines have been well established based on robust evidence. This study evaluated for gaps between evidence-based medicine (EBM) and real-world clinical practice for BE management in Japan and examined endoscopist adherence to Japanese and Western guidelines.

METHODS

A nationwide survey consisting of 19 questions was conducted among Japanese endoscopists to assess their diagnostic and surveillance practices for BE. Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression analysis were employed to interpret key data.

RESULTS

Responses from 804 endoscopists revealed significant differences between Western guidelines and Japanese practices. Local adherence to standardized inspection times was 7.6%, and 30.7% of endoscopists used the Prague classification. Biopsies for BE diagnosis and random biopsies following the Seattle protocol were rarely performed. For long-segment BE, 51.4% of respondents reported using magnifying endoscopy. Regarding ultra-short-segment BE (USSBE), opinions were divided on whether it should be diagnosed as BE and if patients should be informed of its diagnosis. Approximately 40% of respondents advocated annual surveillance for USSBE, with a general tendency to recommend closer follow-up regardless of BE length as compared with Western guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS

This survey highlighted several incongruities between EBM and real-world practices for BE, as well as differences between Western and Japanese approaches. Bridging these gaps will require generating more Japan-specific evidence, refining guidelines, and then promoting their dissemination to harmonize best BE practices with international standards and Japanese clinical settings.

Tunnel anastomosis: a modified flap technique in esophagogastrostomy as a novel antireflux technique after proximal gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of proximal gastric cancer (PGC) has been increasing rapidly worldwide. Postoperative reflux esophagitis after conventional esophagogastrostomy (EG) is a major problem that haunts surgeons. This study designed a novel antireflux technique called tunnel anastomosis in EG after proximal gastrectomy (PG). This study aimed to present the detailed procedures of tunnel anastomosis and to assess its safety and feasibility by comparing the surgical outcomes, reflux, and nutritional status of patients undergoing tunnel anastomosis and those undergoing double-tract jejunal interposition reconstruction (DTJIR).

METHODS

A total of 1718 patients undergoing gastrectomy were enrolled in this study. However, only 150 patients undergoing PG were ultimately analyzed, of which 21 patients underwent tunnel anastomosis and 129 patients underwent DTJIR. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to reduce biases.

RESULTS

After 1:1 PSM, there were 21 patients in both groups. No significant differences were observed between the 2 groups regarding surgical approach, blood loss, operative time, reconstruction time, postoperative hospital stay, morbidity, and mortality. The incidence of reflux esophagitis in both groups was 9.5% (2/21) according to the endoscopic examination at the 12-month postoperative follow-up. No patient in the tunnel group was classified as grade B or higher according to the Los Angeles classification. Patients in the tunnel and DTJIR groups exhibited comparable postoperative nutritional status when assessing the body weight, albumin levels and prognostic nutritional index value at 3 and 6 months after surgery.

CONCLUSION

Tunnel anastomosis is a safe technique that offers a robust antireflux effect and can be performed in some suitable patients with PGC.

Remnant Stomach Influx Reduces Esophageal Reflux and Malnutrition After Proximal Gastrectomy With Double Tract Reconstruction

Background/Aim

Remnant stomach influx (RSI) from the anastomotic jejunal-remnant stomach, a physiological food passage, develops after proximal gastrectomy with double-tract reconstruction (PGDT). Sometimes, food passes into the jejunal-loop (JL). We investigated the association of the food passage route in PGDT (RSI/JL) with postoperative esophageal reflux and malnutrition.

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively collected data for 50 patients with upper-third gastric cancer and esophagogastric junction cancer with PGDT. Using one-year postoperative fluoroscopy findings, 40 propensity score-matched patients were classified into RSI and JL groups (n=20/group), respectively. The groups were comparatively evaluated for: clinicopathological characteristics [age, sex, body mass index (BMI), visceral fat index (VFI), subcutaneous fat index (SFI), skeletal muscle index, pathological stage]; perioperative factors [approach, postoperative complications ≥ Clavien-Dindo Grade 2, postoperative food passage); and esophageal reflux (reflux esophagitis frequency ≥ Grade A, degree of reflux based on fluoroscopy findings). Univariate and multivariate analysis identified predictive factors for post-operative malnutrition in all 50 patients.

Results

After propensity score matching, grade of reflux esophagitis and degree of reflux was significantly lower (p=0.014, p<0.001) in the RSI versus JL group. The RSI group showed significantly attenuated percent decrease in BMI, VFI, and SFI (p=0.049, p=0.002, p=0.006). Multivariate analysis identified food passage route (JL) and pathological stage as predictive factors for postoperative malnutrition.

Conclusion

Postoperative esophageal reflux and malnutrition were attenuated by food passage mainly via the RSI after PGDT. Improved jejunal-remnant stomach is requisite to ensure satisfactory remnant stomach influx.

Novel reconstruction method using long and narrow gastric tube in laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy for cancer: a retrospective case series study

Background and objectives

To clarify the safety and feasibility of laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG) with our novel reconstruction methods.

Methods

Novel method is a reconstruction with a long and narrow gastric tube with widening of the proximal side created by linear stapler, and esophagogastrostomy is performed by linear stapler. In conventional method, esophagogastrostomy is performed by a circular stapler. Short- and long-term outcomes of a novel method were compared with those of conventional method.

Results

A total of 44 patients whom LPG was performed were enrolled in this retrospective study. No cases of anastomotic leakage and stenosis were observed in both groups. The cases of postoperative reflux esophagitis (Grade B or higher) at 1 year after operation in the Novel group were less than those in the Conventional group (17% vs. 44%).

Conclusion

LPG with novel reconstruction method can be easily performed, and may be feasible for the treatment of proximal gastric cancer.

Complete laparoscopic and Da Vinci robot esophagogastric anastomosis double muscle flap plasty for radical resection of proximal gastric cancer

Objective

To investigate the application value of complete laparoscopy and Da Vinci robot esophagogastric anastomosis double muscle flap plasty in radical resection of proximal gastric cancer.

Method

A retrospective descriptive study was used. The clinicopathological data of 35 patients undergoing radical operation for proximal gastric cancer admitted to Liaoning Cancer Hospital from January 2020 to December 2023 were collected. Variables evaluated: 1. Transoperative,2. Postoperative, 3. Follow-up. In relation to follow-up, esophageal disease status reflux, anastomosis, nutritional status score, serum hemoglobin, tumor recurrence, and metastasis were investigated. The trans and postoperative variables were obtained from the clinical records and the patients were followed up in outpatient department and by telephone.

Result

Among the 35 patients, 17 underwent robotic surgery and 18 underwent laparoscopic surgery. There were 29 males and 6 females. 1) Transoperative: Robotic surgery: The operation time was (305.59 ± 22.07) min, the esophagogastric anastomosis double muscle flap plasty time was (149.76 ± 14.91) min, the average number of lymph nodes cleared was 30, and the average intraoperative blood loss was 30 ml. Laparoscopic surgery: The mean operation time was 305.17 ± 26.92min, the operation time of esophagogastric anastomosis double muscle flap was (194.06 ± 22.52) min, the average number of lymph nodes cleared was 24, and the average intraoperative blood loss was 52.5 ml. 2) Postoperative: Robotic surgery: the average time for patients to have their first postoperative anal emission was 3 days, the average time to first postoperative feeding was 4 days, and the average length of hospitalization after surgery was 8 days. Laparoscopic surgery: the average time for patients to have their first postoperative anal emission was 5 days, the average time to first postoperative feeding was 6 days, the average length of hospitalization after surgery was 10 days. 3) Follow-up: The follow-up time ranged from 1 to 42 months, with a median follow-up time of 24 months.

Conclusion

Complete Da Vinci robot and laparoscopic esophagogastric anastomosis double muscle flap plasty for radical resection of proximal gastric cancer can minimize surgical incision, reduce abdominal exposure, accelerate postoperative recovery of patients, and effectively prevent reflux esophagitis and maintain good hemoglobin concentration and nutritional status. The advantages of robotic surgery is less intraoperative bleeding and faster post-surgical recovery, but it is relatively more expensive.

The Short-Term and Long-Term Outcomes of Laparoscopy-Assisted Proximal Gastrectomy with Double-Tract Reconstruction versus Laparoscopy-Assisted Total Gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y Reconstruction for Adenocarcinoma of the Esophagogastric Junction: A Multicenter Study Based on Propensity Score Matching Analysis

Purpose

To compare the antireflux effect, long-term nutritional levels, and quality of life (QoL) between laparoscopy-assisted proximal gastrectomy with double-tract reconstruction (LPG-DTR) and laparoscopy-assisted total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction (LTG-RY) for adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG).

Methods

This multicenter retrospective cohort study collected clinicopathological and follow-up data of AEG patients from January 2016 to January 2021 at five high-volume surgery centers. The study included patients who underwent digestive tract reconstruction with LPG-DTR or LTG-RY after tumor resection. Propensity score matching (PSM) was utilized to minimize confounding factors. The comparison after PSM included postoperative complications, reflux esophagitis, long-term nutritional levels, and QoL.

Results

A total of 151 consecutive patients underwent either LPG-DTR or LTG-RY. After PSM, 50 patients from each group were included in the analysis. The frequency of reflux esophagitis and Clavien-Dindo classification did not significantly differ between the two groups (P > 0.05). At 1 year after surgery, the LPG-DTR group showed significantly higher weight and hemoglobin levels than the LTG-RY group (P < 0.05). The overall postoperative Visick grade differed significantly between the groups (P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference in the proportion of patients with Visick≥III (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Both LPG-DTR and LTG-RY are safe and feasible methods for digestive tract reconstruction in patients with AEG. Both methods have similar antireflux effects and postoperative QoL. However, LPG-DTR resulted in superior nutritional levels compared to LTG-RY. Therefore, LPG-DTR is considered a relatively effective method for digestive tract reconstruction in AEG patients.

Short-term outcomes and long-term quality of life of reconstruction methods after proximal gastrectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The optimal reconstruction method after proximal gastrectomy remains unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the short-term outcomes and long-term quality of life of various reconstruction methods.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Library were searched to identify comparative studies concerning the reconstruction methods after proximal gastrectomy. The reconstruction methods were classified into six groups: double tract reconstruction (DTR), esophagogastrostomy (EG), gastric tube reconstruction (GT), jejunal interposition (JI), jejunal pouch interposition (JPI) and double flap technique (DFT). Esophagogastric anastomosis group (EG group) included EG, GT and DFT, while esophagojejunal anastomosis group (EJ group) included DTR, JI and JPI.

RESULTS

A total of 27 studies with 2410 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled results indicated that the incidences of reflux esophagitis of DTR, EG, GT, JI, JPI and DFT were 7.6%, 27.3%, 4.5%, 7.1%, 14.0%, and 9.1%, respectively. The EG group had more reflux esophagitis (OR = 3.68, 95%CI 2.44-5.57, P < 0.00001) and anastomotic stricture (OR = 1.58, 95%CI 1.02-2.45, P = 0.04) than the EJ group. But the EG group showed shorter operation time (MD=-56.34, 95%CI -76.75- -35.94, P < 0.00001), lesser intraoperative blood loss (MD=-126.52, 95%CI -187.91- -65.12, P < 0.0001) and shorter postoperative hospital stay (MD=-2.07, 95%CI -3.66- -0.48, P = 0.01). Meanwhile, the EG group had fewer postoperative complications (OR = 0.68, 95%CI 0.51-0.90, P = 0.006) and lesser weight loss (MD=-1.25, 95%CI -2.11- -0.39, P = 0.004). For specific reconstruction methods, there were lesser reflux esophagitis (OR = 0.10, 95%CI 0.06-0.18, P < 0.00001) and anastomotic stricture (OR = 0.14, 95%CI 0.06-0.33, P < 0.00001) in DTR than the esophagogastrostomy. DTR and esophagogastrostomy showed no significant difference in anastomotic leakage (OR = 1.01, 95%CI 0.34-3.01, P = 0.98).

CONCLUSION

Esophagojejunal anastomosis after proximal gastrectomy can reduce the incidences of reflux esophagitis and anastomotic stricture, while esophagogastric anastomosis has advantages in technical simplicity and long-term weight status. Double tract reconstruction is a safe technique with excellent anti-reflux effectiveness and favorable quality of life.

REGISTRATION

This meta-analysis was registered on the PROSPERO (CRD42022381357).

The Multidisciplinary Approach and Surgical Management of GE Junction Adenocarcinoma

Gastroesophageal (GE) junction adenocarcinoma is an aggressive malignancy of growing incidence and is associated with public health issues such as obesity and GERD. Management has evolved over the last two decades to incorporate a multidisciplinary approach, including endoscopic intervention, neoadjuvant chemotherapy/chemoradiation, and minimally invasive or more limited surgical approaches. Surgical approaches include esophagectomy, total gastrectomy, and, more recently, proximal gastrectomy. This review analyzes the evidence for and applicability of these varied approaches in management, as well as areas of continued controversy and investigation.

Current status of gastrectomy and reconstruction types for patients with proximal gastric cancer in Japan

BACKGROUND

Surgical procedures for proximal gastric cancer remain a highly debated topic. Total gastrectomy (TG) is widely accepted as a standard radical surgery. However, subtotal esophagectomy, proximal gastrectomy (PG) or even subtotal gastrectomy, when a small upper portion of the stomach can technically be preserved, are alternatives in current clinical practice.

METHODS

Using a cohort of the PGSAS NEXT trial, consisting of 1909 patients responding to a questionnaire sent to 70 institutions between July 2018 and December 2019, gastrectomy type, reconstruction method, and furthermore the remnant stomach size and the anti-reflux procedures for PG were evaluated.

RESULTS

TG was the procedure most commonly performed (63.0%), followed by PG (33.4%). Roux-en-Y was preferentially employed following TG irrespective of esophageal tumor invasion, while jejunal pouch was adopted in 8.5% of cases with an abdominal esophageal stump. Esophagogastrostomy was most commonly selected after PG, followed by the double-tract method. The former was preferentially employed for larger remnant stomachs (≧3/4), while being used slightly less often for tumors with as compared to those without esophageal invasion in cases with a remnant stomach 2/3 the size of the original stomach. Application of the double-tract method gradually increased as the remnant stomach size decreased. Anti-reflux procedures following esophagogastrostomy varied markedly.

CONCLUSIONS

TG is the mainstream and PG remains an alternative in current Japanese clinical practice for proximal gastric cancer. Remnant stomach size and esophageal stump location appear to influence the choice of reconstruction method following PG.

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

BACKGROUND

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

Anastomotic stenosis following proximal gastrectomy with single flap valvulopasty successfully managed with endoscopic stricturotomy: a case report

BACKGROUND

Due to its nutritional advantages over total gastrectomy, proximal gastrectomy (PG) with anti-reflux techniques has gained significant attention in East Asian countries in recent years. The double flap technique (DFT) and modified side overlap and fundoplication by Yamashita (mSOFY) are two promising anti-reflux interventions following PG. However, anastomotic stenosis after DFT and gastroesophageal reflux after mSOFY have been reported in several patients. To address these concerns, a hybrid reconstruction procedure was designed, namely, right-sided overlap with single flap valvulopasty (ROSF), for proximal gastrectomy, with the aim of reducing anastomotic stricture and reflux. Among the 38 patients who underwent ROSF at our hospital, one developed Stooler grade II anastomotic stenosis. Herein, we present the successful management of this patient through endoscopic stricturotomy (ES).

CASE SUMMARY

A 72-year-old female complaining of "epigastric pain and discomfort for more than 1 month" was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (Siewert type II). She underwent laparoscopic-assisted PG and ROSF procedures at our hospital and recovered well after surgery. However, she started experiencing progressive difficulty in eating and vomiting approximately 3 weeks after the intervention. Endoscopy revealed Stooler grade II esophagogastric anastomotic stenosis. ES with insulated tip (IT) Knife nano was eventually performed, and the patient was able to resume a normal diet without experiencing any discomfort during the 5-month follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic stricturotomy using IT Knife nano successfully treated anastomotic stenosis following ROSF with no associated complications. Thus, ES to treat anastomotic stenosis after PG with valvulopasty can be considered a safe option and should be performed in centers with the required expertise.

Quality of life comparison between esophagogastrostomy and double tract reconstruction for proximal gastrectomy assessed by Postgastrectomy Syndrome Assessment Scale (PGSAS)-45

Aim

The current study compared the postoperative quality of life (QOL) between the esophagogastrostomy method (PGEG) and double tract method (PGDT) after proximal gastrectomy using the Postgastretomy Syndrome Assessment Scale (PGSAS)-45.

Methods

Among the 2364 patients who received the PGSAS-45 questionnaire, 300 PGEG and 172 PGDT cases responded. The main outcomes measures (MOMs) consisted of seven subscales (SS) covering symptoms, meals (amount and quality), ability to work, dissatisfaction with daily life, physical and mental component summary of the 8-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-8), and change in body weight, and were compared between PGEG and PGDT.

Results

Overall, PGDT promoted significantly better constipation SS scores (p < 0.05), whereas PGEG tended to promote better body weight (BW) loss% (p < 0.10). A stratified analysis based on the remnant stomach size revealed that among those with a remnant stomach size of 1/2, PGDT had significantly better constipation and dumping SS scores (p < 0.05) and tended to have better working conditions (p < 0.10) compared to PGEG. Even among those with the remnant stomach size of 2/3, PGDT had significantly better diarrhea SS scores, lesser dissatisfaction with symptoms, and better dissatisfaction with daily life SS scores (p < 0.05) and tended to have better constipation SS scores and lesser dissatisfaction with work (p < 0.10) compared to PGEG.

Conclusions

After comparing the QOLs of PGEG and PGDT, the stratified analysis according to remnant stomach sizes of 1/2 and 2/3 revealed that PGDT was relatively superior to PGEG for several MOMs.

Efficacy of minimally invasive proximal gastrectomy followed by valvuloplastic esophagogastrostomy using the double flap technique in preventing reflux oesophagitis

BACKGROUND

Valvuloplastic esophagogastrostomy (VEG) using the double flap technique (DFT) after proximal gastrectomy (PG) represents a promising procedure for the prevention of reflux oesophagitis. We aimed to retrospectively investigate the efficacy of minimally invasive PG followed by VEG-DFT in preventing reflux oesophagitis among patients who require intra-mediastinal anastomosis.

METHODS

A total of 80 patients who underwent reconstruction with DFT after LPG from November 2013 to January 2021 were enrolled in the present study. Data were obtained through a review of our prospectively maintained database. At 1 year after surgery, multivariate analyses were performed to identify risk factors for gastroesophageal reflux disease of Los Angeles (LA) classification grade B or higher.

RESULTS

The incidence of LA grade B or higher reflux oesophagitis 1 year after surgery was 10%. Multivariate analyses revealed that the longitudinal length of the resected oesophagus of > 20 mm was the only significant risk factor for reflux oesophagitis. Patients with a longitudinal length of the resected oesophagus > 20 mm (group-L, n = 35) had a significantly longer total operative time and a higher rate of complications within 30 days of surgery than those with a length of ≤ 20 mm (group-S, n = 45). LA grade B or higher reflux oesophagitis was significantly higher in group-L than in group-S (20% vs. 2.2%; P = 0.011).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a need for surgical procedures with improved efficacy for the prevention of reflux oesophagitis in patients requiring oesophageal resection of > 20-mm.

The comparison of long-term oncological outcomes and complications after proximal gastrectomy with double tract reconstruction versus total gastrectomy for proximal gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Conventional methods for treating patients with proximal gastric cancer (PGC) include proximal gastrectomy (PG) and total gastrectomy (TG) and such methods have become challenging due to double tract reconstruction (DTR). However, the clinical outcomes remain unclear. This study was performed with the aim of verifying that PG-DTR was beneficial in terms of reducing the incidence of postoperative complications and improving the prognosis.

METHODS

The PGC patient cohort was retrospectively grouped into the PG-DTR and TG groups. Clinicopathological features, complications, and survival data were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

A total of 388 patients were included in the analyses. Patients who were subjected to TG tended to have more severe gastroesophageal reflux (GR) (P = 0.041), anemia (P = 0.007), and hypoalbuminemia (P < 0.001). Overall survival rates, regardless of clinical stage, were significantly different between the PG-DTR and TG groups (all P < 0.05). The multivariate Cox regression analysis confirmed that surgical procedure, tumor size, infiltration depth, lymph node metastasis, differentiation, and age were independent risk factors. The patients were likely to benefit from PG-DTR (all HR > 1 and P < 0.05). However, no significant differences were observed in the risks of GR, anemia, and hypoalbuminemia (all P > 0.05). Moreover, the nomogram derived from significant parameters showed great calibration and discrimination ability and significant clinical benefit.

CONCLUSIONS

The patients who underwent PG-DTR had a favorable prognosis. The risk of postoperative complications, such as severe GR, anemia, and hypoalbuminemia, was lower in PG-DTR than in TG. Thus, PG-DTR is more beneficial for patients with PGC and may be a valuable and promising surgical procedure.

A comparison of the effects of anti-reflux procedures during esophagogastrostomy after proximal gastrectomy on the postoperative quality of life

PURPOSE

To investigate the postoperative quality of life (QOL) in patients with proximal gastric cancer (PGC) or esophago-gastric junction cancer, a nationwide multi-institutional study (PGSAS NEXT trial) was conducted.

METHODS

Patients who had undergone radical resection more than 6 months previously were enrolled from 70 Japanese institutions between July 2018 and June 2020. The Postgastrectomy Syndrome Assessment Scale (PGSAS)-45 questionnaire was distributed to eligible patients, and responses were collected by mail. The main outcome measures of the PGSAS-45 were then calculated and compared.

RESULTS

Questionnaires were retrieved from 1950 participants, and data from 300 patients who had undergone a proximal gastrectomy (PG) with esophagogastrostomy for PGC were analyzed. The mean esophageal reflux subscale value was 1.9 among the 276 patients who underwent an anti-reflux procedure, which was significantly better than the mean value (2.6) for the 21 patients who did not undergo an anti-reflux procedure (p = 0.002). The esophageal reflux subscale values were also compared among 3 major anti-reflux procedures: the double-flap technique (N = 153), the pseudo-fornix and/or His angle formation (N = 67), and fundoplication (N = 44); no statistically significant differences were observed.

CONCLUSION

An anti-reflux procedure during esophagogastrostomy after PG for PGC is necessary to improve postoperative esophageal reflux symptoms, regardless of the type of procedure.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The PGSAS NEXT study was registered with the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR; registration number: 000032221).

Laparoscopic Function-Preserving Gastrectomy for Proximal Gastric Cancer or Esophagogastric Junction Cancer: A Narrative Review

Function-preserving procedures to maintain postoperative quality of life are an important aspect of treatment for early gastric cancer. Laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG) and laparoscopic distal gastrectomy with a small remnant stomach, namely laparoscopic subtotal gastrectomy (LsTG), are alternative function-preserving procedures for laparoscopic total gastrectomy of early proximal gastric cancer. In LPG, esophagogastrostomy with techniques to prevent reflux and double-tract and jejunal interposition including esophagojejunostomy is usually chosen for reconstruction. The double-flap technique is currently a preferred reconstruction technique in Japan as an esophagogastrostomy approach to prevent reflux esophagitis. However, standardized reconstruction methods after LPG have not yet been established. In LsTG, preservation of the esophagogastric junction and the fundus prevents reflux and malnutrition, which may maintain quality of life. However, whether LsTG is an oncologically and nutritionally acceptable procedure compared with laparoscopic total gastrectomy or LPG is a concern. In this review, we summarize the status of reconstruction in LPG and the oncological and nutritional aspects of LsTG as a function-preserving gastrectomy for early proximal gastric or esophagogastric junction cancer.

Gastric Emptying is Accelerated in Patients With Gastric Tube Reconstruction Following Laparoscopic Proximal Gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG) is an attractive option for the treatment of early gastric cancer in the upper third of the stomach. No optimal method of reconstruction after LPG has been established because of problems associated with postoperative reflux. Gastric tube reconstruction, a type of esophagogastrostomy, is a simple procedure, but it is associated with a high frequency of reflux esophagitis (RE). We investigated the relationship between RE and gastric emptying, along with nutritional parameters.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

We compared gastric emptying in patients who had undergone curative LPG with gastric tube reconstruction for gastric cancer with that of patients after total gastrectomy (TG), distal gastrectomy (DG) and of healthy volunteers and patients after DG. The LPG group was divided into an RE LPG-RE (+) group and a non-reflux esophagitis (non-RE) an LPG-RE (-) group, and we compared gastric emptying and indices of nutrition, such as body weight and laboratory findings, between those among LPG-RE (+), LPG-RE (-), and TG groups.

RESULTS

The time lag between ingestion and peak 13 CO 2 expiration (T lag) in the healthy volunteer group was significantly shorter in the LPG group longer than those in the healthy volunteer LPG group and TG group. The T lag was significantly shorter in the RE LPG-RE (+) group than in the non-RE LPG-RE (-) group. The percentage change in body weight percentage in the non-RE LPG-RE (-) group was significantly larger than that in the RE LPG-RE (+) group at 12 months after surgery. Both the serum albumin and hemoglobin levels in the non-RE LPG-RE (-) tended to be preserved compared with those in the RE LPG-RE (+) group and TG group.

CONCLUSIONS

Gastric emptying was accelerated after LPG, and was associated with RE. Our data suggest that RE could be associated with body weight loss after LPG.

Modified side overlap esophagogastrostomy after laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy

We report a new method of esophagogastrostomy after proximal gastrectomy, side overlap with fundoplication by Yamashita (SOFY) in 2017. Recently, even better treatment results can be obtained by modifying the SOFY method. We describe the technical details of the modified SOFY (mSOFY) after laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy. The stomach was dissected in the short axis direction and the esophagus was dissected in the left and right direction. After the proximal gastrectomy, the bilateral diaphragmatic crus were dissected to enhance gastric elevation. After confirming that the esophagus overlapped more than 5 cm at the center of the remnant stomach (we call it SOFY check), the remnant stomach was suture-fixed to the dissected diaphragmatic crus. The right wall of the esophageal stump and the remnant stomach were anastomosed using the full length of a 45 mm-linear stapler. The entry hole was closed in a direction that did not widen the anastomotic hole. Both sides of the esophagus, remnant stomach, and diaphragmatic crus were suture-fixed on the cranial side 1-2 cm away from the anastomosis. Moreover, the left wall and lower end of the esophagus was suture-fixed to the remnant stomach. The preserved dorsal esophageal wall is pressed and flattened by pressure from the pseudofornix, which is the reflux prevention mechanism. The mSOFY method had favorable treatment outcomes. In conclusion, mSOFY can be one of the safe and feasible reconstruction methods after laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy.

Efficacy analysis of Cheng's GIRAFFE reconstruction after proximal gastrectomy for adenocarcinoma of esophagogastric junction

Objective

Reconstruction of the digestive tract for adenocarcinoma of esophagogastric junction (AEG) is in dispute. This study evaluated Cheng's gastric tube interposition esophagogastrostomy with reconstruction of His angle and fundus (Cheng's GIRAFFE anastomosis) in laparoscopic/open proximal gastrectomy for Siewert type II AEG, which was performed at Zhejiang Cancer Hospital and the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University. Here, we discuss the preliminary results of gastric emptying and anti-reflux.

Methods

From a retrospective database, 74 patients with advanced Siewert type II AEG underwent curative proximal gastrectomy with GIRAFFE anastomosis, and their gastric emptying and anti-reflux outcomes were evaluated by the Reflux Disease Questionnaire (RDQ) score, nuclide gastric emptying, 24-h impedance-pH monitoring and gastroscopy.

Results

Seventy-four patients successfully completed proximal partial gastrectomy with Cheng's GIRAFFE esophagogastric anastomosis. RDQ score six months after the operation was 2.2±2.5. Results of nuclide gastric emptying examinations showed that the gastric half-emptying time was 67.0±21.5 min, the 1-h residual rate was (52.2±7.7)%, the 2-h residual rate was (36.4±5.1)%, and the 3-h residual rate was (28.8±3.6)%; 24-h impedance-pH monitoring revealed that the mean DeMeester score was 5.8±2.9. Reflux esophagitis was observed by gastroscopy in 7 patients six months after surgery.

Conclusions

Cheng's GIRAFFE anastomosis is safe and feasible for Siewert type II AEG.

Clinical Outcomes of Laparoscopic Proximal Gastrectomy With Double-Flap Reconstruction for Tumors in the Upper Third of the Stomach

PURPOSE

Laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG) has been a standard surgery for early gastric cancer in the upper third of the stomach and large esophagogastric junction gastrointestinal stromal tumor. However, how to reconstruct the stomach after LPG is still debated. This study aimed to evaluate the results of LPG with double-flap reconstruction.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed with 14 patients undergoing LPG with double-flap reconstruction for early gastric cancer or large tumors in the upper third of the stomach from 2018 to 2021. We evaluated postoperative complications, gastroesophageal reflux and the gastric remnant's function using endoscopy in accordance with the Los Angeles and Residue-Gastritis-Bile classifications, and patients' quality of life by the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) questionnaire.

RESULTS

Median age was 54 years and 10 patients were male. There were 7 patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumor, 4 with leiomyoma and 3 with early-stage adenocarcinoma. No patient had major complications or required conversion to open surgery. During a median follow-up period of 24.6 months, 1 patient had late anastomotic stricture, 2 had metastasis, and 1 died. Endoscopic evaluation at 6 and 12 months showed good function of the gastric remnant in most patients. Patients' quality of life improved over time: mean GSRS score was 26.9±12.6, 20.3±7.2, and 18.8±4.2 at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

LPG with double-flap reconstruction is feasible and safe for early gastric cancer or large tumors in the upper third of the stomach. The long-term functional outcomes and patients' quality of life were acceptable.

Laparoscopic Esophagogastric Anastomosis With Stapled Pseudo-Fornix for Reflux Esophagitis Prevention After Proximal Gastrectomy

Laparoscopic esophagogastric anastomosis is not commonly performed after proximal gastrectomy (PG) because of its technical complexity and the lack of a gold standard for reconstruction. We describe a simple and convenient technique of laparoscopic esophagogastrostomy with stapled pseudo-fornix for reflux esophagitis (RE) prevention after PG.

Laparoscopic PG (LPG) was performed in four patients with gastric cancer in the upper third of the stomach, and the remnant stomach was prepared for reconstruction. After making a small hole on the anterior wall of the remnant stomach 45 mm distal to the proximal stump and on the dorsal side of the esophageal stump, a 45 mm no-knife linear stapler was applied. To create a "pseudo-fornix," a common lumen was made by cutting the center of the four staple rows at a length of 15 mm. The entry hole was closed using the laparoscopic hand-sewn suturing technique.

The mean operation time was 240 min, with an estimated blood loss of <10 ml. No intraoperative complications or conversion to open surgery were observed. One patient developed stenosis of the esophagogastrostomy successfully treated by endoscopic balloon dilatation. Endoscopic surveillance three months after surgery revealed no incidence of RE in any of the patients.

Laparoscopic esophagogastric anastomosis with stapled pseudo-fornix is convenient and beneficial in preventing RE after PG and should be considered the treatment of choice for reconstruction after LPG in selected patients with proximal gastric cancer.

Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for gastroesophageal reflux disease 2021

In Japan, with the increasing prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and growing public interest, the Japanese Society of Gastroenterology issued Evidence-based Clinical Practice Guidelines for GERD (1st edition) in 2009 and a revised 2nd edition in 2015. A number of studies on GERD were subsequently conducted in Japan and abroad, and vonoprazan, a potassium-competitive acid blocker (P-CAB), became available for the first time in Japan in February 2015. The revised 3rd edition (Japanese edition), which incorporates new findings and information, was published in April 2021. These guidelines are summarized herein, particularly sections related to the treatment of GERD. The important clinical issues addressed in the present revision are (i) the introduction of treatment algorithms that classify GERD into reflux esophagitis and non-erosive reflux disease, (ii) the clarification of treatment algorithms based on to the severity of reflux esophagitis, and (iii) the positioning of vonoprazan in the treatment for GERD. The present guidelines propose vonoprazan as the initial/maintenance treatment for severe reflux esophagitis. They also recommend vonoprazan or PPI as an initial treatment for mild reflux esophagitis and recommended PPI and proposed vonoprazan as maintenance treatment. These updated guidelines offer the best clinical strategies for GERD patients in Japan and hope that they will be of global use for the diagnosis and treatment for GERD.

Functional benefits of the double flap technique after proximal gastrectomy for gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Proximal gastrectomy is a widely performed procedure that has become more common with an increasing number of proximal gastric cancer cases. Several types of reconstructive procedures after proximal gastrectomy have been developed, and it remains controversial which procedure is the most advantageous with regard to the preservation of postoperative gastric stump function and nutritional status. In the present study, we retrospectively analyzed reconstructive procedures in a consecutive case series for proximal gastrectomy, primarily focusing on postoperative body weight maintenance, nutritional status, and gastric remnant functional preservation.

METHODS

We enrolled 69 patients who had undergone proximal gastrectomy for gastric cancer in our institute between 2005 and 2020. Short-term complications, preservation of gastric remnant functions, nutritional status, and post-operative weight changes were compared.

RESULTS

After proximal gastrectomy, the numbers of patients who underwent direct esophago-gastrostomy, jejunal interposition, double tract reconstruction, and the double flap technique were 9, 10, 14, and 36, respectively. The patients in whom the double flap technique was performed suffered no reflux esophagitis after surgery. Prevalence of gastric residual at 12 months after surgery was lowest in the double flap technique group. Moreover, the double flap technique group had a better tendency regarding post-operative changes of serum albumin ratios. Furthermore, the post-operative body weight change ratio of the double flap technique group was smallest among all groups and was significantly better than that of the double tract group.

CONCLUSIONS

The double flap technique after proximal gastrectomy was considered the most effective technique for reconstruction which leads to better bodyweight maintenance, and results in less reflux esophagitis.

Linear stapler anastomosis for esophagogastrostomy in laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy reduce reflux esophagitis

PURPOSE

There are various reconstruction methods for Laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG), such as esophagogastrostomy (EG), double-tract reconstruction, and jejunal interposition. We have performed EG using a circular stapler (OrVil) from 2013 and using a linear stapler from 2017. The aim of this retrospective study was to clarify which stapler is better for EG for LPG.

METHODS

The data of 84 patients who underwent EG for LPG between January 2013 and September 2019 were analyzed. EG with fundoplication was done using a circular stapler (OrVil) in 45 patients (CS group) and a linear stapler in 39 patients (LS group). The patients' medical records were reviewed. Clinical symptoms were obtained by interview at each outpatient consultation. All patients underwent postoperative 1-year follow-up endoscopy. To minimize bias between the two groups, propensity scores were calculated using a logistic regression model. After propensity-score matching, 60 patients (30 in the CS group and 30 in the LS group) were studied.

RESULTS

Patient characteristics, operative outcomes were similar in two groups. Anastomotic leakage occurred in one patient (3.3%) in both groups. Anastomotic stenosis occurred in five patients (16.7%) in the CS group and two patients (6.7%) in the LS group. The rate of patients with severe reflux esophagitis (grade C or D) was significantly lower in the LS group (3.4%) than in the CS group (26.7%) (p = 0.026).

CONCLUSIONS

EG with a linear stapler could reduce the risk of severe reflux esophagitis, and it could be a safe and feasible anastomosis for patients after LPG.

Comparison of nutrition and quality of life of esophagogastrostomy and the double-tract reconstruction after laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy

This study aims to compare the nutritional outcomes and quality of life between patients who underwent esophagogastrostomy (EG) and those who underwent the double-tract reconstruction (DTR) after laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy for early gastric cancer.We retrospectively reviewed the prospectively established database of 45 patients who underwent EG with anti-reflux procedure and 58 patients who underwent the DTR after laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy between December 2013 and June 2017. Then, we compared the baseline characteristics, clinical outcomes, postoperative nutritional parameters, and quality of life (QOL) using European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ STO-22 between the EG and DTR groups.In the postoperative 1-year endoscopic findings, the incidence of esophageal reflux was higher in the EG group (17.8% vs 3.4%, P = .041) and there was no significant difference in anastomotic stricture. Nutritional status was evaluated via body mass index, serum albumin, protein, hemoglobin, and ferritin; we found no significant differences. The incidences of iron deficiency anemia and vitamin B12 deficiency also showed no significant difference between the 2 groups. With regards to the quality of life, the difference values between preoperative and postoperative 1-year were evaluated; there was no significant difference between the EG with anti-reflux procedure and DTR groups.EG had higher incidence of esophageal reflux and similar nutritional outcomes and QOL compared with the double-tract reconstruction after laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy. Additional large-scale research is needed to evaluate the long-term functional outcomes of EG and the double-tract reconstruction.

Clinical outcomes of gastric tube reconstruction following laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy for early gastric cancer in the upper third of the stomach: experience with 100 consecutive cases

BACKGROUND

Gastric tube reconstruction is a form of esophagogastrostomy performed after laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG). It is a simple and safe technique, but it may cause reflux esophagitis (RE) and impair postsurgical QOL. For several years, we have developed the gastric tube reconstruction and performed it on more than 100 patients. This study aimed to determine whether gastric tube reconstruction can be a feasible choice after LPG in regard to surgical safety and postoperative nutritional status.

METHODS

The subjects consisted of 171 patients who underwent LPG (n = 102) or laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG) (n = 69). We compared the two groups in terms of surgical outcomes, incidence rate of RE, and nutritional status including postoperative weight loss and hemoglobin levels.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences with regard to the surgical duration and blood loss between the two groups. The incidence of RE was not significantly higher with LPG than with LTG (16.7% vs. 10.1%, respectively; P = 0.07). Later than 2 years and 6 months after surgery, the body weight percentage of preoperative body weight in the LPG group was significantly higher than that in the LTG group. Hemoglobin and ferritin levels in the LPG group were significantly higher than those in the LTG group, later than one after surgery. The overall survival rates were similar between the two groups (5-year survival rates: 97.1% vs. 94.2% in the LPG and LTG groups, respectively; P = 0.69).

CONCLUSIONS

Gastric tube reconstruction after LPG is simple and had better outcomes than LTG in terms of postoperative nutritional status.

A Novel Valvuloplastic Esophagogastrostomy Technique for Laparoscopic Transhiatal Lower Esophagectomy and Proximal Gastrectomy for Siewert Type II Esophagogastric Junction Carcinoma-the Tri Double-Flap Hybrid Method

We developed a novel technique for valvuloplastic esophagogastrostomy, named tri double-flap hybrid method (TDF). TDF is shown to be simple and useful for Siewert type II esophagogastric junction carcinoma.

BACKGROUND

Research has found valvuloplastic esophagogastrostomy using the conventional hand-sutured double-flap (CDF) technique to be a useful anti-reflux procedure after proximal gastrectomy. However, no study has focused on this reconstruction procedure after laparoscopic transhiatal lower esophagectomy and proximal gastrectomy (LEPG) for esophagogastric junction carcinoma primarily because of its profound difficulty. Thus, we devised a novel technique for valvuloplastic esophagogastrostomy comprising triangular linear-stapled esophagogastrostomy and hand-sutured flap closure, which we term the tri double-flap hybrid (TDF) method.

METHODS

After reviewing our institution's prospective gastric cancer database, 59 consecutive patients with Siewert type II esophagogastric junction carcinoma who underwent LEPG with valvuloplastic esophagogastrostomy from January 2014 to August 2018 were analyzed. Short- and mid-term surgical outcomes were then compared between the LEPG-TDF and LEPG-CDF groups to evaluate the efficacy of the TDF method.

RESULTS

The median operative time was 316 min (184-613 min) and blood loss was 22.5 ml (0-180 ml). In comparison between the two groups, the LEPG-TDF group had a significantly shorter operative time (298 vs. 336 min, p = 0.041) and significantly lower postoperative anastomotic leak/stenosis rates (0 vs. 14.2%, p = 0.045), compared to the LEPG-CDF group. No patient suffered from severe gastroesophageal reflux symptoms (Visick score ≥ III).

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that double-flap valvuloplastic esophagogastrostomy is safe and feasible for reconstruction after LEPG for Siewert type II esophagogastric junction carcinoma. Moreover, the TDF method is a simple and useful technique that offers a shorter operative time and lower morbidity compared to the CDF technique.

Comparisons of Postoperative Complications and Nutritional Status After Proximal Laparoscopic Gastrectomy with Esophagogastrostomy and Double-Tract Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to compare postoperative complications and nutritional status between esophagogastrostomy and double-tract reconstruction in patients who underwent laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy, and assess the advantages of both surgical procedures.

METHODS

Between 2010 and 2018, 47 cases underwent proximal gastrectomy with esophagogastrostomy (n = 23) or double-tract reconstruction (n = 24) at our institution for the treatment of clinical T1N0 adenocarcinoma located in the upper third of the stomach. Patient clinical characteristics, short-term outcomes, nutrition status, and skeletal muscle index were compared among the two groups.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between esophagogastrostomy and double-tract reconstruction in terms of operation time, blood loss, and length of postoperative hospital stay. Reflux symptoms and anastomotic stenosis were significantly higher in the esophagogastrostomy group compared with the double-tract reconstruction group (P < 0.001 and P = 0.004, respectively). There was no significant difference in anastomotic leakage, surgical site infection, and pancreatic fistula. For the nutritional status, the decrease rate of cholinesterase was significantly higher in the esophagogastrostomy group compared with the double-tract reconstruction group at 6 months (P = 0.008) There was no significant difference in the decrease rate of skeletal muscle mass index at 1 year after surgery.

CONCLUSION

Compared with esophagogastrostomy, double-tract reconstruction tends to have better short-term nutritional status and postoperative outcomes in terms of preventing the occurrence of gastroesophageal reflux and anastomosis stenosis. These findings suggest that double-tract reconstruction may be a useful method in laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy.

Clinical outcomes of laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery for submucosal tumors on the esophagogastric junction: a retrospective single-center analysis

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery (LECS) technique for gastric submucosal tumor (SMT) has developed, but treatment of SMT on the esophagogastric junction (EGJ) remains technically difficult because excessive resection may result in postoperative transformation of the EGJ and cause stenosis, and intervention to lower esophageal sphincter may result in gastroesophageal reflux. The study aim was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of LECS for SMT on the EGJ.

METHODS

Between September 2012 and December 2018, LECS was performed for 21 patients with SMTs on the EGJ. Fundoplication was performed after LECS according to the intraoperative findings for each case. The patients' backgrounds, operative outcomes, and follow-up data, including endoscopic findings of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and proton pomp inhibitor (PPI) use, were reviewed.

RESULTS

In all 21 cases, LECS was completed with a mean operation time of 225 min, and a mean blood loss of 8.8 mL. All patients were alive without recurrence within the mean follow-up period of 30.5 months. Both GERD and PPI use tended to be less frequent when fundoplication was performed, although these differences were not statistically significant. (7.7% vs. 37.5%; P = 0.091, 23.1% vs. 50.0%; P = 0.204, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated the feasibility and safety of LECS for SMTs even on the EGJ. Fundoplication after LECS may be an approach for the prevention of postoperative reflux esophagitis. Future research is warranted to validate the efficacy of the addition of fundoplication.

Current status of proximal gastrectomy for gastric and esophagogastric junctional cancer: A review

Proximal gastrectomy (PG) is one of the function-preserving surgical methods for the treatment of upper gastric cancer. Favorable postoperative results have been reported in comparison with total gastrectomy. However, because there are challenges, such as postoperative reflux esophagitis, anastomotic stenosis, and residual food, appropriate selection of a reconstruction method is crucial. Some methods include esophagogastric anastomosis, including simple esophagogastrostomy, tube-like stomach esophagogastrostomy, side overlap with fundoplication by Yamashita, and double-flap technique, and reconstruction using the small intestine, including double-tract methods, jejunal interposition, and jejunal pouch interposition. However, standard reconstruction methods are yet to be established. PG has also been employed in early gastric cancer of the upper third of the stomach, and indications have also been extended to esophagogastric junction cancer, which has shown an increase in recent years. Although many retrospective studies have revealed the functional benefits or oncological safety of PG, the characteristics of each surgical procedure should be understood so that an appropriate reconstruction method, with a reflux prevention mechanism and minimal postoperative injury, can be selected.

Totally laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy with double tract reconstruction: outcomes of 37 consecutive cases

Introduction

Proximal gastrectomy is an alternative treatment modality for gastric cancer in the upper third of the stomach. Though several reconstruction methods have been introduced, there is no standardization. We investigated the outcomes of laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy with double tract reconstruction (LPG-DTR).

Aim

To investigate the outcomes of LPG-DTR.

Material and methods

We evaluated 37 patients who underwent curative LPG with DTR between December 2013 and December 2018. Less than half of the proximal stomach was laparoscopically resected. We performed LPG-DTR after resection.

Results

A total of 37 patients were included in this study, 25 (70%) of whom were male and 12 (30%) of whom were female. Overall, 31 (83.7%) patients were diagnosed with gastric cancer, 5 (13.5%) with gastrointestinal stromal tumors, and 1 (2.8%) with leiomyoma. There were 3 (9.6%) complications. However, there were no complications of grade 3 or above. We did not observe postoperative mortality or recurrence after surgery. All patients underwent postoperative endoscopic surveillance successfully. None of the patients had postoperative reflux esophagitis or stenosis. The body weight and hemoglobin levels of the patients were lowest 12 months after surgery and gradually increased thereafter. Similarly, their vitamin B₁₂ levels were lowest 6 months after surgery. However, iron been increased after surgery until 24 months after surgery.

Conclusions

LPG-DTR is a favorable treatment modality for gastric cancer in the upper third of the stomach.

Short-Term Surgical Outcomes of Laparoscopic Proximal Gastrectomy With Double-Tract Reconstruction Versus Laparoscopic Total Gastrectomy for Adenocarcinoma of Esophagogastric Junction: A Matched-Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG) with double-tract reconstruction (DTR) is performed as a function-preserving surgery for patients with adenocarcinoma of esophagogastric junction. However, whether LPG with DTR has postoperative advantages over laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG) is debatable. To evaluate benefits of LPG with DTR, we compared short-term surgical outcomes between LPG with DTR and LTG for adenocarcinoma of esophagogastric junction (AEG).

METHODS

Twelve patients who underwent LPG with DTR for AEG between February 2016 and August 2017 were included. Twenty-four patients who underwent LTG in the same period were matched to LPG with DTR cases for demographics, comorbidities, tumor characteristics, and tumor node metastasis stage. Short-term surgical outcomes were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Demographics of the LPG with DTR group and LTG group were comparable. The number of harvested lymph nodes in the LPG with DTR group was less than that in the LTG group, and the amount of estimated blood loss, the operative time, the days of gas-passing, start of diet, postoperative hospital stay were not significantly different between the groups. Furthermore, the postoperative reflux symptom in the LPG with DTR group was not significantly different with that in the LTG group. However, the increasing percentages of the serum albumin, total protein, and hemoglobin levels in the LPG with DTR group were significantly higher than those in the LTG group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reveals that LPG with DTR may be a valuable procedure for the treatment of AEG because it has the advantages over LTG in terms of postoperative serum albumin, total protein, and hemoglobin.

Precision surgical approach with lymph-node dissection in early gastric cancer

The gravest prognostic factor in early gastric cancer is lymph-node metastasis, with an incidence of about 10% overall. About two-thirds of early gastric cancer patients can be diagnosed as node-negative prior to treatment based on clinic-pathological data. Thus, the tumor can be resected by endoscopic submucosal dissection. In the remaining third, surgical resection is necessary because of the possibility of nodal metastasis. Nevertheless, almost all patients can be cured by gastrectomy with D1+ lymph-node dissection. Laparoscopic or robotic gastrectomy has become widespread in East Asia because perioperative and oncological safety are similar to open surgery. However, after D1+ gastrectomy, functional symptoms may still result. Physicians must strive to minimize post-gastrectomy symptoms and optimize long-term quality of life after this operation. Depending on the location and size of the primary lesion, preservation of the pylorus or cardia should be considered. In addition, the extent of lymph-node dissection can be individualized, and significant gastric-volume preservation can be achieved if sentinel node biopsy is used to distinguish node-negative patients. Though the surgical treatment for early gastric cancer may be less radical than in the past, the operative method itself seems to be still in transition.

Multicenter retrospective study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the double-flap technique as antireflux esophagogastrostomy after proximal gastrectomy (rD-FLAP Study)

AIM

As a result of the difficulty in effective prevention of gastroesophageal reflux, no standard reconstruction procedure after proximal gastrectomy (PG) has yet been established. The double-flap technique (DFT), or Kamikawa procedure, is an antireflux reconstruction procedure in esophagogastrostomy. The efficacy of DFT has recently been reported in several studies. However, these were all single-center studies with a limited number of cases.

METHODS

We conducted a multicenter retrospective study in which patients who underwent DFT, irrespective of disease type and reconstruction approach, at each participating institution between 1996 and 2015 were registered. Primary endpoint was incidence of reflux esophagitis at 1-year after surgery, and secondary endpoint was incidence of anastomosis-related complications.

RESULTS

Of 546 patients who were eligible for this study, 464 patients who had endoscopic examination at 1-year follow up were evaluated for reflux esophagitis. Incidence of reflux esophagitis of all grades was 10.6% and that of grade B or higher was 6.0%. Male gender and anastomosis located in the mediastinum/intra-thorax were independent risk factors for grade B or higher reflux esophagitis (odds ratio [OR]: 4.21, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.44-10.9, P = 0.0109). Total incidence of anastomosis-related complications was 7.2%, including leakage in 1.5%, strictures in 5.5% and bleeding in 0.6% of cases. Laparoscopic reconstruction was the only independent risk factor for anastomosis-related complications (OR: 3.93, 95% CI: 1.93-7.80, P = 0.0003).

CONCLUSION

Double-flap technique might be a feasible option after PG for effective prevention of reflux, although anastomotic stricture is a complication that must be well-prepared for.

Robot-Assisted Versus Laparoscopy-Assisted Proximal Gastrectomy for Early Gastric Cancer in the Upper Location: Comparison of Oncological Outcomes, Surgical Stress, and Nutritional Status

Background:

An increasing amount of attention has been paid to minimally invasive function-preserving gastrectomy, with an increase in incidence of early gastric cancer in the upper stomach. This study aimed to compare oncological outcomes, surgical stress, and nutritional status between robot-assisted proximal gastrectomy (RAPG) and laparoscopy-assisted proximal gastrectomy (LAPG).

Methods:

Eighty-nine patients were enrolled in this retrospective study between November 2011 and December 2013. Among them, 27 patients underwent RAPG and 62 underwent LAPG. Perioperative parameters, surgical stress, nutritional status, disease-free survival, and overall survival were compared between the 2 groups.

Results:

Sex, age, and comorbidity were similar in the RAPG and LAPG groups. There were also similar perioperative outcomes regarding operation time, complications, and length of hospital stay between the groups. The reflux esophagitis rates following RAPG and LAPG were 18.5% and 14.5%, respectively (P = .842). However, patients in the RAPG group had less blood loss (P = .024), more harvested lymph nodes (P = .021), and higher costs than those in the LAPG group (P < .001). With regard to surgical stress, no significant differences were observed in C-reactive protein concentrations and white blood cell count on postoperative days 1, 3, and 7 between the groups (Ps > .05). There appeared to be higher hemoglobin levels at 6 months (P = .053) and a higher body mass index at 12 months (P = .056) postoperatively in patients in the RAPG group compared with those in the LAPG group, but this difference was not significant. Similar disease-free survival and overall survival rates were observed between the groups.

Conclusions:

RAPG could be an alternative to LAPG for patients with early gastric cancer in the upper stomach with comparable oncological safety and nutritional status. Further well-designed, prospective, large-scale studies are needed to validate these results.

Comparison of outcomes of laparoscopy-assisted and open proximal gastrectomy with jejunal interposition for early gastric cancer in the upper third of the stomach: A retrospective observational study

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopy-assisted proximal gastrectomy with jejunal interposition (LAPG-JI) is not yet widely used because the three anastomotic procedures involved in this operation are technically complicated. This study aimed to describe our surgical procedure for LAPG-JI and assess its feasibility and safety.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 70 patients who had undergone proximal gastrectomy with jejunal interposition for gastric cancer in the upper third of the stomach between July 2007 and October 2016. Of these patients, 32 underwent LAPG-JI, and 38 underwent open proximal gastrectomy with jejunal interposition. Clinical characteristics and both surgical and postoperative outcomes were compared between LAPG-JI and open proximal gastrectomy with jejunal interposition.

RESULTS

The operation time was longer in the LAPG-JI group (189 vs 154 min, P < 0.001) and estimated blood loss was lower (30 vs 180 mL, P < 0.001). There were no differences in the rates of early (9.4% vs 13.2%) or late postoperative complications (12.5% vs 10.5%). No anastomotic leakage was observed in either group. In the LAPG-JI group, the time to first eating was shorter, and the white blood cell counts on postoperative days 1 and 7 and body temperature on postoperative day 3 were lower. The number of additional doses of postoperative analgesia was lower in the LAPG-JI group. Reflux esophagitis graded C according to the Los Angeles classification was observed in only one patient (3.1%) in the LAPG-JI group.

CONCLUSION

Although the operation time was longer in the LAPG-JI group, the procedure seemed to be feasible and safe. Also, it offered the advantages of laparoscopic surgery, including less invasiveness and quicker recovery.

[Laparoscopic Proximal Gastrectomy as a Surgical Treatment for Upper Third Early Gastric Cancer]

Recently, the incidence of upper third gastric cancer has increased, and with it the number of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) procedures performed has been increasing. However, if ESD is not indicated or non-curable, surgical treatment may be necessary. In the case of lower third gastric cancer, it is possible to preserve the upper part of the stomach; however, in the case of upper third gastric cancer, total gastrectomy is still the standard treatment option, regardless of the stage. This is due to the complications associated with upper third gastric cancer, such as gastroesophageal reflux after proximal gastrectomy rather than oncologic problems. Recently, the introduction of the double tract reconstruction method after proximal gastrectomy has become one of the surgical treatment methods for upper third early gastric cancer. However, since there has not been a prospective comparative study evaluating its efficacy, the ongoing multicenter prospective randomized controlled trial (KLASS-05) comparing laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy with double tract reconstruction and laparoscopic total gastrectomy is expected to be important for determining the future of treatment of upper third early gastric cancer.

Short-term outcomes and nutritional status after laparoscopic subtotal gastrectomy with a very small remnant stomach for cStage I proximal gastric carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Total or proximal gastrectomy is usually performed for early proximal gastric carcinoma, but the optimal type of gastrectomy is still unknown. We evaluated short-term outcomes and nutritional status after laparoscopic subtotal gastrectomy (LsTG) in comparison with laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG) and laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG).

METHODS

We analyzed 113 patients who underwent LsTG (n = 38), LTG (n = 48), or LPG (n = 27) for cStage I gastric cancer located in the upper third of the stomach. Postoperative morbidities, nutritional status including body weight, serum albumin, hemoglobin, the prognostic nutritional index (PNI), and endoscopic findings at 1 year after surgery were compared between LsTG and both LTG and LPG.

RESULTS

Operation time and intraoperative blood loss were similar among the three groups. The incidence of postoperative morbidities was lower in LsTG than in LTG. The degree of body weight loss was significantly smaller in LsTG than in LTG at 6 and 12 months. At 12 months, LsTG resulted in better serum albumin and PNI than LPG, and better hemoglobin than LTG. Endoscopic examination demonstrated that one LsTG patient and two LPG patients had reflux esophagitis. Remnant gastritis was observed more frequently in LPG than in LsTG. No LsTG patient had bile reflux, although it was observed in four LPG patients.

CONCLUSIONS

LsTG with a very small remnant stomach had favorable short-term outcomes and nutritional status compared with LTG and LPG, so it may be a better treatment option for cStage I proximal gastric carcinoma.

Clinicopathology and Survival in Patients with Gastroesophageal Reflux After Radical Surgery of Proximal Gastric Cancer

BACKGROUND

Gastroesophageal reflux (GR) after radical resection of proximal gastric cancer (PGC) may influence survival; however, few studies have investigated survival in PGC patients who develop GR following radical resection. This study aimed to correlate the occurrence of GR after proximal gastrectomy (PG) and total gastrectomy (TG) with clinicopathological factors and long-term survival.

METHODS

The PGC patient cohort was retrospectively grouped as follows: postoperative patients with and without GR (NGR). Clinicopathological characteristics and survival data were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

A total of 88 patients who underwent PG (53%) experienced postoperative GR; however, only 30 patients who underwent TG (14%) experienced GR (P = 0.000). The incidence of GR was significantly associated with surgical procedure (P < 0.01), tumor size (P < 0.01), infiltration depth (P < 0.01), lymph node metastasis (P = 0.018), postoperative distant metastasis (P < 0.01) and recurrence (P = 0.001). The 5-year overall survival of the GR group was significantly worse than that of the NGR group (39.3 vs. 46.5%, respectively; P = 0.046). The PG and TG groups had significantly different 5-year overall survival (45.2 vs. 50.9%, respectively; P = 0.047), and multivariate analysis revealed GR as an independent risk factor associated with poor overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who experienced GR after radical resection for PGC were more likely to develop recurrence and metastasis, leading to shorter survival. TG for PGC was associated with a more favorable 5-year overall survival than was PG. Thus, TG should be performed for PGC patients with tumors larger than 5 cm, T3/T4 disease or lymph node metastasis to improve their long-term survival.

Reconstruction methods after radical proximal gastrectomy: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

The incidence of tumors located in the upper third of the stomach is increasing, and the use of radical proximal gastrectomy is becoming prevalent. After a proximal gastrectomy, various reconstructions are performed, but surgical outcomes are controversial. This study was performed to review clinical outcomes of reconstructions after proximal gastrectomy.

METHODS

Inclusion criteria focused on postoperative complications of patients who underwent a proximal gastrectomy for gastric cancer. Exclusion criteria were case reports; targeted data not investigated; a duplicate study reported in a larger cohort; esophageal sphincter preservation surgery; near-total gastrectomy; recurrence of tumor; and combined organ resection.

RESULTS

In total, 22 retrospective and 2 prospective studies were included. The studies investigated surgical outcomes of esophagogastrostomy (n = 10), jejunal interposition (n = 12), jejunal pouch interposition (n = 7), double tract jejunal interposition (n = 1), and tube-like stomach esophagogastrostomy (n = 5). Pooled incidences of reflux esophagitis or reflux symptoms for these procedures were 28.6%, 4.5%, 12.9%, 4.7%, and 10.7%, respectively. Incidences of postoperative complications were 9.5%, 18.1%, 7.0%, 11.6%, and 9.3%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite increasing operation complexity, which perhaps increased the risk of other postoperative complications, currently used reconstructions present excellent anti-reflux efficacy. However, the optimal reconstruction method remains to be determined.

Robotic valvuloplastic esophagogastrostomy using double flap technique following proximal gastrectomy: technical aspects and short-term outcomes

BACKGROUND

Valvuloplastic esophagogastrostomy by double flap technique (VEG-DFT) is a promising procedure to prevent reflux after proximal gastrectomy (PG), and is achieved by the burial of the abdominal esophagus into the gastric submucosa; however, laparoscopic VEG-DFT is technically demanding due to complicated suturing and ligation maneuvers. The present study was designed to determine the feasibility and safety of robotic VEG-DFT.

METHODS

After robotic PG, seromuscular flaps were extracorporeally created at the anterior wall of the remnant stomach through a small umbilical incision. Then, using a robot, the posterior wall of the esophagus was fixed to the cranial end of the mucosal window, and layer-to-layer sutures were placed between the anterior aspects of esophagus and the remnant stomach. Finally, the anastomosis was covered by seromuscular flaps. Short-term outcomes of 12 consecutive patients who underwent VEG-DFT between January 2014 and December 2015 were assessed.

RESULTS

Operations were successfully completed using robotic assistance in all patients. Median operative, surgeon console, and anastomosis times were 406 (324-613 min), 267 (214-483), and 104 (76-186) min, respectively, and median estimated blood loss was 31 (5-130) ml. The first six cases were required to reach a learning plateau. Both mortality and morbidity rates within 30 days after surgery were 0%. Postoperative hospital stay was 10 (9-30) days. No postoperative reflux esophagitis was observed, whereas anastomotic stenosis, which required endoscopic balloon dilation, developed in three patients (25%) in postoperative month 2. There was a significant association between the total number of stitches used for VEG-DFT and anastomotic stenosis (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Robotic assistance may be useful for VEG-DFT with a short learning curve. Attention is required to prevent postoperative anastomotic stenosis possibly caused by an excessive number of stitches for esophagogastrostomy.

Function-preserving surgery for gastric cancer: current status and future perspectives

The number of early gastric cancer (EGC) cases has been increasing because of improved diagnostic procedures including endoscopy and screening systems. Therefore, function-preserving gastrectomy (FPG) for EGC with the expectation of better quality of life (QOL) after surgery may be increasingly utilized, due to its association with low rate of lymph node metastasis and excellent survival and the possibility of employing less invasive procedures such as laparoscopic gastrectomy in combination. Pylorus-preserving gastrectomy (PPG) with curative intent lymph node dissection is a representative FPG that has been used in EGC, and its superiorities, indications, limitations, and survival benefits have already been reported in several retrospective studies. Laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LAPG) has also been employed in EGC of the upper third of the stomach; however, LAPG was found to be associated with major issues in achieving a balance between swallowing and reflux prevention. In patients with EGC in the upper third of the stomach, laparoscopy-assisted subtotal gastrectomy with a preserved, albeit very small, stomach may provide a better QOL and fewer postoperative complications. FPG is recommended as a surgical treatment for EGC if the indication is accurately diagnosed and strictly confirmed; however, these techniques in laparoscopic surgery present technical difficulties to surgeons without a certain degree of skills. Although many retrospective studies revealed the functional benefits or oncological safety with FPG, further prospective studies using large case series are necessary to reveal the value of FPG compared with the conventional procedures.

功能保留手术在早期胃癌治疗中的作用

随着人们健康意识的增加和胃镜等医疗诊断技术的不断进步, 早期胃癌的诊断率逐年上升. 早期胃癌的功能保留胃切除术是在根治原发病灶, 行标准淋巴结清扫前提下, 限制胃切除范围, 同时保留幽门及迷走神经功能, 以达到改善患者术后生活质量的目的, 其手术方式包括: 保留幽门的胃切除术, 近端胃切除术, 胃节段切除以及局部切除. 此外, 内镜下黏膜切除术和黏膜剥离也被认为属于功能保留胃切除术范畴. 对于大部分早期胃癌患者, 根治性手术具有良好的治疗效果, 其5年生存率在90%以上. 因此, 在达到手术根治目的的前提下, 保留部分胃的解剖和生理功能, 提高患者术后的生活质量, 对早期胃癌患者具有重要的意义.

Side overlap esophagogastrostomy to prevent reflux after proximal gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

No optimal method of reconstruction for proximal gastrectomy has been established because of problems associated with postoperative reflux and anastomotic stenosis. It is also important that the reconstruction is easily performed laparoscopically because laparoscopic gastrectomy has become widely accepted in recent years.

METHODS

We have developed a new method of esophagogastrostomy, side overlap with fundoplication by Yamashita (SOFY). The remnant stomach is fixated to the diaphragmatic crus on the dorsal side of the esophagus. The esophagus and the remnant stomach are overlapped by a length of 5 cm. A linear stapler is inserted in two holes on the left side of the esophageal stump and the anterior gastric wall. The stapler is rotated counterclockwise on its axis and fired. The entry hole is closed, and the right side of the esophagus is fixated to the stomach so that the esophagus sticks flat to the gastric wall. The surgical outcomes of the SOFY method were compared with those of esophagogastrectomy different from SOFY.

RESULTS

Thirteen of the 14 patients in the SOFY group were asymptomatic without a proton pump inhibitor, but reflux esophagitis was observed in 5 of the 16 patients in the non-SOFY group and anastomotic stenosis was observed in 3 patients. Contrast enhancement findings in the SOFY group showed inflow of Gastrografin to the remnant stomach was extremely good, and no reflux into the esophagus was observed even with patients in the head-down tilt position.

CONCLUSIONS

SOFY can be easily performed laparoscopically and may overcome the problems of postoperative reflux and stenosis.

Laparoscopically Assisted Proximal Gastrectomy with Esophagogastrostomy Using a Novel "Open-Door" Technique : LAPG with Novel Reconstruction

Laparoscopy-assisted proximal gastrectomy (LAPG) with esophagogastrostomy using a novel "open-door" technique was introduced recently, with the aim of preventing gastroesophageal reflux. However, quantitate assessment of gastroesophageal reflux after this surgery has not been performed till date. The aims of the current study were to investigate the safety and feasibility of this operation and to elucidate the postoperative reflux status. Twenty consecutive patients (18 men) with (y)cStage I gastric cancer in the upper third of the stomach who underwent LAPG at Kitasato University Hospital from May 2015 through September 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. We performed 24-h impedance-pH monitoring 3 months after surgery for the first eight patients and analyzed the postoperative reflux status. Median operation time was 333 min, while median anastomotic time was 81 min. None of the 20 patients experienced anastomotic leakage while two patients experienced anastomotic stricture requiring endoscopic balloon dilatation. No patient experienced heartburn without antacid drugs. During the 24-h impedance-pH monitoring, all but one patient had normal gastroesophageal acid reflux with the acid percent time of <1.1% and reflux percent time of <1.4%. One patient with marginally abnormal postoperative gastroesophageal reflux had a normal DeMeester score of 3.0. Our results showed that esophagogastrostomy using the "open-door" technique is a safe and feasible procedure for LAPG. The degree of gastroesophageal reflux was acceptable using this technique. Randomized controlled trials with long-term follow-ups are required to confirm that this technique would be superior to the others.

Modified esophagogastrostomy in laparoscopy-assisted proximal gastrectomy: A reverse-Tornado anastomosis

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to introduce and examine a modified mechanical end-to-side esophagogastrostomy method ("reverse-Tornado" anastomosis) in laparoscopy-assisted proximal gastrectomy.

METHODS

Five patients with gastric cancer who underwent laparoscopy-assisted proximal gastrectomy were analyzed retrospectively. Esophagogastrostomy in the anterior wall was performed in three patients, and esophagogastrostomy in the posterior wall was performed in two patients. Clinicopathological features, operative outcomes (operative time, operative blood loss), and postoperative outcomes (complications, postoperative hospital stay, reflux esophagitis) were evaluated.

RESULTS

Operative time was normal (278 min). There was no marked operative blood loss, postoperative complications, prolonged hospital stay, or reflux esophagitis.

CONCLUSION

Esophagogastrostomy was completed in a normal time with reverse-Tornado anastomosis. This method can be safe and can enable good postoperative quality of life.

Laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy for early gastric cancer

The incidence of proximal early gastric cancer (EGC) is increasing, and while laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG) has been performed as a surgical option, it is not yet the standard treatment, because there is no established common reconstruction method following proximal gastrectomy (PG). We reviewed the English-language literature to clarify the current status and problems associated with LPG in treating proximal EGC. This procedure is considered indicated for EGC located in the upper third of the stomach with clinical T1N0, but not when it can be treated endoscopically. No operative mortality or conversion to open surgery was reported in our review, suggesting that this procedure is technically feasible. The most frequent postoperative complication involved problems with anastomoses, possibly caused by the technical complexity of the reconstruction. Although various reconstruction methods following open PG (OPG) and LPG have been reported, there is no standard reconstruction method. Well-designed multicenter, randomized, controlled, prospective trials to evaluate the various reconstruction methods are necessary.

Functional Advantages of Proximal Gastrectomy with Jejunal Interposition Over Total Gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y Esophagojejunostomy for Early Gastric Cancer

BACKGROUND

The postoperative functional advantages of a proximal gastrectomy over a total gastrectomy remain debatable. The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional outcomes of a proximal gastrectomy with jejunal interposition (PG-JI), compared with those for a total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y esophagojejunostomy (TG-RY), in patients with early gastric cancer.

METHODS

Between 2007 and 2012, 65 patients underwent PG-JI and 117 underwent TG-RY for cT1 gastric cancer. Various parameters, including body weight, serum hemoglobin level, and interview-based symptoms, were prospectively evaluated in these patients. In patients who underwent PG-JI, the postoperative endoscopic findings were also assessed.

RESULTS

All the surgeries were performed via a laparotomy alone. During a median postoperative follow-up of 42 months (range, 12-78 months), PG-JI offered significant reductions in body weight loss (12.5 ± 5.8 vs. 17.4 ± 6.4 %, P < 0.001), serum hemoglobin decline (7.0 ± 5.7 vs. 9.7 ± 5.4 %, P = 0.002), and dumping symptoms (11 % [7/65] vs. 30 % [35/117], P = 0.003), while being associated with similar incidences of anastomotic stricture (9 % [6/65] vs. 8 % [9/117], P = 0.781), small bowel obstruction (0 % [0/65] vs. 2 % [2/117], P = 0.538), stasis symptoms (51 % [33/65] vs. 44 % [51/117], P = 0.358), and reflux symptoms (34 % [22/65] vs. 23 % [27/117], P = 0.121), compared with TG-RY. Four cases of gastric remnant cancer and no cases of endoscopic reflux esophagitis were found after PG-JI.

CONCLUSIONS

PG-JI has clear functional advantages over TG-RY, although it requires active surveillance for remnant gastric cancer.