What should be the gold standard for the surgical component in the treatment of locally advanced esophageal cancer: transthoracic versus transhiatal esophagectomy. Ann Surg. 2014;260:1016-1022. [PMID: 24950288 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0000000000000335]

Short-term Outcomes of Different Techniques for Gastric Ischemic Preconditioning Before Esophagectomy: A Network Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Ischemia at the anastomotic site plays a critical role determinant in the development of anastomosis-related complications after esophagectomy. Gastric ischemic conditioning (GIC) before esophagectomy has been described to improve the vascular perfusion at the tip of the gastric conduit with a potential effect on anastomotic leak (AL) and stenosis (AS) risk minimization. Laparoscopic (LapGIC) and angioembolization (AngioGIC) techniques have been reported.

PURPOSE

Compare short-term outcomes among different GIC techniques.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Systematic review and network meta-analysis. One-step esophagectomy (noGIC), LapGIC, and AngioGIC were compared. Primary outcomes were AL, AS, and gastric conduit necrosis (GCN). Risk ratio (RR) and weighted mean difference (WMD) were used as pooled effect size measures, whereas 95% credible intervals (CrIs) were used to assess relative inference.

RESULTS

Overall, 1760 patients (14 studies) were included. Of those, 1028 patients (58.4%) underwent noGIC, 593 (33.6%) LapGIC, and 139 (8%) AngioGIC. AL was reduced for LapGIC versus noGIC (RR=0.68; 95% CrI 0.47-0.98) and AngioGIC versus noGIC (RR=0.52; 95% CrI 0.31-0.93). Similarly, AS was reduced for LapGIC versus noGIC (RR=0.32; 95% CrI 0.12-0.68) and AngioGIC versus noGIC (RR=1.30; 95% CrI 0.65-2.46). The indirect comparison, assessed with the network methodology, did not show any differences for LapGIC versus AngioGIC in terms of postoperative AL and AS risk. No differences were found for GCN, pulmonary complications, overall complications, hospital length of stay, and 30-day mortality among different treatments.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to noGIC, both LapGIC and AngioGIC before esophagectomy seem equivalent and associated with a reduced risk for postoperative AL and AS.

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.

Time trends in mortality of oesophageal cancer in Finland over 30 years

INTRODUCTION

Oesophageal cancer survival is reported by epidemiological studies, but knowledge on survival trends regarding different histologies and operative treatment status is lacking.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from all patients diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in Finland in 1987-2016 was collected from national registries. 1-, 3- and 5-year survival rates were examined stratified by histology (adenocarcinoma (OAC) and squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC)) and treatment strategy (surgery, no surgery). Hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for death were provided by multivariable Cox regression, adjusted for confounders.

RESULTS

Of the 9102 patients, 3140 had OAC (1074 [34%] oesophagectomies), and 3778 had OSCC (870 [23%] oesophagectomies). Men were overrepresented in both OAC (77%) and OSCC (55%). The proportion of oesophagectomies decreased in both histologies. From 1987 to 1991 to 2012-2016, 5-year survival increased from 11% to 22% in OAC and from 7% to 13% in OSCC. For patients undergoing oesophagectomy, the corresponding increases were from 20% to 49% in OAC and from 11% to 54% in OSCC, and non-operated patients from 5% to 8% and from 5% to 7%, respectively. Earlier calendar period, older age and comorbidity were associated with mortality in both histologies. Female sex was a protective factor for patients operated for OSCC (HR 1.56 (95% CI 1.33-1.83), men versus women).

CONCLUSIONS

The prognosis of oesophageal cancer has improved in Finland over the last 30 years in both main histological types. The survival of patients undergoing oesophagectomy has drastically improved, while the prognosis of patients not undergoing surgery is slowly improving but remains poor.

Effect of gastric ischemic conditioning prior to esophagectomy: systematic review and meta-analysis

Ischemia at the anastomotic site is thought to be a protagonist in the development of anastomosis-related complications while different strategies to overcome this problem have been reported. Gastric ischemic conditioning (GIC) prior to esophagectomy has been described with this intent. Evaluate the effect of GIC on anastomotic complications after esophagectomy. Scopus, Web of Science, MEDLINE, and PubMed were investigated up to March 31st, 2023. We considered articles that appraised short-term outcomes after GIC vs. no GIC in patients undergoing esophagectomy. Anastomotic leak (AL), anastomotic stricture (AS), and gastric conduit necrosis (GCN) were primary outcomes. Risk ratio (RR) and standardized mean difference (SMD) were used as pooled effect size measures, whereas 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were used to calculate related inference. Fourteen studies (1760 patients) were included. Of those, 732 (41.6%) underwent GIC, while 1028 (58.4%) underwent one-step esophagectomy. Compared with no GIC, GIC was related to a reduced RR for AL (R RR = 0.63; 95% CI 0.47-0.86; p < 0.01) and AS (RR = 0.51; 95% CI 0.29-0.91; p = 0.02), whereas no differences were found for GCN (RR = 0.56; 95% CI 0.19-1.61; p = 0.28). Postoperative pneumonia (RR = 1.09; p = 0.99), overall complications (RR = 0.87; p = 0.19), operative time (SMD - 0.58; p = 0.07), hospital stay (SMD 0.66; p = 0.09), and 30-day mortality (RR = 0.69; p = 0.22) were comparable. GIC prior to esophagectomy seems associated with a reduced risk for AL and AS. Further studies are necessary to identify the subset of patients who can benefit from this procedure, the optimal technique, and the timing of GIC prior to esophagectomy.

Risk Factors for Tumor Positive Resection Margins After Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy for Esophageal Cancer: Results From the Dutch Upper GI Cancer Audit: A Nationwide Population-Based Study

OBJECTIVE

To identify risk factors for tumor positive resection margins after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) followed by esophagectomy for esophageal cancer.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Esophagectomy after nCRT is associated with tumor positive resection margins in 4% to 9% of patients. This study evaluates potential risk factors for positive resection margins after nCRT followed by esophagectomy.

METHODS

All patients who underwent an elective esophagectomy following nCRT in 2011 to 2017 in the Netherlands were included. A multivariable logistic regression was performed to assess the association between potential risk factors and tumor positive resection margins.

RESULTS

In total, 3900 patients were included. Tumor positive resection margins were observed in 150 (4%) patients. Risk factors for tumor positive resection margins included tumor length (in centimeters, OR: 1.1, 95% CI: 1.0-1.1), cT4-stage (OR: 3.0, 95% CI: 1.2-6.7), and an Ivor Lewis esophagectomy (OR: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.0-2.6). Predictors associated with a lower risk of tumor positive resection margins were squamous cell carcinoma (OR: 0.4, 95% CI: 0.2-0.7), distal tumors (OR: 0.5, 95% CI: 0.3-1.0), minimally invasive surgery (OR: 0.6, 95% CI: 0.4-0.9), and a hospital volume of >60 esophagectomies per year (OR: 0.6, 95% CI: 0.4-1.0).

CONCLUSIONS

In this nationwide cohort study, tumor and surgical related factors (tumor length, histology, cT-stage, tumor location, surgical procedure, surgical approach, hospital volume) were identified as risk factors for tumor positive resection margins after nCRT for esophageal cancer. These results can be used to improve the radical resection rate by careful selection of patients and surgical approach and are a plea for centralization of esophageal cancer care.

Prediction of Individual Lymph Node Metastatic Status in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Using Routine Computed Tomography Imaging: Comparison of Size-Based Measurements and Radiomics-Based Models

BACKGROUND

Lymph node status is vital for prognosis and treatment decisions for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). This study aimed to construct and evaluate an optimal radiomics-based method for a more accurate evaluation of individual regional lymph node status in ESCC and to compare it with traditional size-based measurements.

METHODS

The study consecutively collected 3225 regional lymph nodes from 530 ESCC patients receiving upfront surgery from January 2011 to October 2015. Computed tomography (CT) scans for individual lymph nodes were analyzed. The study evaluated the predictive performance of machine-learning models trained on features extracted from two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) radiomics by different contouring methods. Robust and important radiomics features were selected, and classification models were further established and validated.

RESULTS

The lymph node metastasis rate was 13.2% (427/3225). The average short-axis diameter was 6.4 mm for benign lymph nodes and 7.9 mm for metastatic lymph nodes. The division of lymph node stations into five regions according to anatomic lymph node drainage (cervical, upper mediastinal, middle mediastinal, lower mediastinal, and abdominal regions) improved the predictive performance. The 2D radiomics method showed optimal diagnostic results, with more efficient segmentation of nodal lesions. In the test set, this optimal model achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.841-0.891, an accuracy of 84.2-94.7%, a sensitivity of 65.7-83.3%, and a specificity of 84.4-96.7%.

CONCLUSIONS

The 2D radiomics-based models noninvasively predicted the metastatic status of an individual lymph node in ESCC and outperformed the conventional size-based measurement. The 2D radiomics-based model could be incorporated into the current clinical workflow to enable better decision-making for treatment strategies.

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

BACKGROUND

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

Long-Term Survival After Transhiatal Versus Transthoracic Esophagectomy: A Population-Based Nationwide Study in Finland

BACKGROUND

No population-based studies comparing long-term survival after transhiatal esophagectomy (THE) and transthoracic esophagectomy (TTE) exist. This study aimed to compare the 5-year survival of esophageal cancer patients undergoing THE or TTE in a population-based nationwide setting.

METHODS

This study included all curatively intended THE and TTE for esophageal cancer in Finland during 1987-2016, with follow-up evaluation until 31 December 2019. Cox proportional hazard models provided hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of 5-year and 90-day mortality. The results were adjusted for age, sex, year of operation, comorbidities, histology, neoadjuvant treatment, and pathologic stage.

RESULTS

A total of 1338 patients underwent THE (n = 323) or TTE (n = 1015). The observed 5-year survival rate was 39.3% after THE and 45.0% after TTE (p = 0.072). In adjusted model 1, THE was not associated with greater 5-year mortality (HR 0.99; 95% CI 0.82-1.20) than TTE. In adjusted model 2, including T stage instead of pathologic stage, the 5-year mortality hazard rates after THE (HR 0.87, 95% CI 0.72-1.05) and TTE were comparable. The 90-day mortality rate for THE was higher than for TTE (adjusted HR 0.72; 95% CI 0.45-1.14). In subgroup analyses, no differences between THE and TTE were observed in Siewert II gastroesophageal junction cancers, esophageal cancers, or pN0 tumors, nor in the comparison of THE and TTE with two-field lymphadenectomy. The sensitivity analysis, including patients with missing patient records, who underwent surgery during 1996-2016 mirrored the main analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

This Finnish population-based nationwide study suggests no difference in 5-year or 90-day mortality after THE and TTE for esophageal cancer.

Short-term outcome for high-risk patients after esophagectomy

Transthoracic esophagectomy (TTE) for esophageal cancer facilitates mediastinal dissection; however, it has a significant impact on cardiopulmonary status. High-risk patients may therefore be better candidates for transhiatal esophagectomy (THE) in order to prevent serious complications. This study addressed short-term outcome following TTE and THE in patients that are considered to have a higher risk of surgery-related morbidity. This population-based study included patients who underwent a curative esophagectomy between 2011 and 2018, registered in the Dutch Upper GI Cancer Audit. The Charlson comorbidity index was used to assign patients to a low-risk (score ≤ 1) and high-risk group (score ≥ 2). Propensity score matching was applied to produce comparable groups between high-risk patients receiving TTE and THE. Primary endpoint was mortality (in-hospital/30-day mortality), secondary endpoints included morbidity and oncological outcomes. Additionally, a matched subgroup analysis was performed, including only cervical reconstructions. Of 5,438 patients, 945 and 431 high-risk patients underwent TTE and THE, respectively. After propensity score matching, mortality (6.3 vs 3.3%, P = 0.050), overall morbidity, Clavien-Dindo ≥ 3 complications, pulmonary complications, cardiac complications and re-interventions were significantly more observed after TTE compared to THE. A significantly higher mortality after TTE with a cervical reconstruction was found compared to THE (7.0 vs. 2.2%, P = 0.020). Patients with a high Charlson comorbidity index predispose for a complicated postoperative course after esophagectomy, this was more outspoken after TTE compared to THE. In daily practice, these outcomes should be balanced with the lower lymph node yield, but comparable positive node count and radicality after THE.

Robot-assisted minimally invasive esophagectomy (RAMIE) vs. hybrid minimally invasive esophagectomy: propensity score matched short-term outcome analysis of a European high-volume center

INTRODUCTION

Transthoracic esophagectomy is a highly complex and sophisticated procedure with high morbidity rates and a significant mortality. Surgical access has consistently become less invasive, transitioning from open esophagectomy to hybrid esophagectomy (HE) then to totally minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE), and most recently to robot-assisted minimally invasive esophagectomy (RAMIE), with each step demonstrating improved patient outcomes. Aim of this study with more than 600 patients is to complete a propensity-score matched comparison of postoperative short-term outcomes after highly standardized RAMIE vs. HE in a European high volume center.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Six hundred and eleven patients that underwent transthoracic Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy for esophageal cancer between May 2016 and May 2021 were included in the study. In January 2019, we implemented an updated robotic standardized anastomotic technique using a circular stapler and ICG (indocyanine green) for RAMIE cases. Data were retrospectively analyzed from a prospectively maintained IRB-approved database. Outcomes of patients undergoing standardized RAMIE from January 2019 to May 2021 were compared to our overall cohort from May 2016-April 2021 (HE) after a propensity-score matching analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Six hundred and eleven patients were analyzed. 107 patients underwent RAMIE. Of these, a total of 76 patients underwent a robotic thoracic reconstruction using the updated standardized circular stapled anastomosis (RAMIE group). A total of 535 patients underwent HE (Hybrid group). Seventy patients were propensity-score matched in each group and analysis revealed no statistically significant differences in baseline characteristics. RAMIE patients had a significantly shorter ICU stay (p = 0.0218). Significantly more patients had no postoperative complications (Clavien Dindo 0) in the RAMIE group [47.1% vs. 27.1% in the HE group (p = 0.0225)]. No difference was seen in lymph node yield and R0 resection rates. Anastomotic leakage rates when matched were 14.3% in the hybrid group vs. 4.3% in the RAMIE group (p = 0.07).

CONCLUSION

Our analysis confirms the safety and feasibility of RAMIE and HE in a large cohort after propensity score matching. A regular postoperative course (Clavien-Dindo 0) and a shorter ICU stay were seen significantly more often after RAMIE compared to HE. Furthermore it shows that both procedures provide excellent short-term oncologic outcomes, regarding lymph node harvest and R0 resection rates. A randomized controlled trial comparing RAMIE and HE is still pending and will hopefully contribute to ongoing discussions.

Transhiatal esophagectomy as a treatment for locally advanced adenocarcinoma of the gastroesophageal junction: postoperative and oncologic results of a single-center cohort THE for locally advanced GEJC

Background and purpose

To report the postoperative and oncological outcomes of transhiatal esophagectomy for locally advanced cancer of the gastroesophageal junction.

Methods

Medical records of 120 consecutive patients who underwent transhiatal esophagectomy for locally advanced cancer of the gastroesophageal junction with curative intent after neoadjuvant treatment between February 2006 and December 2018 at our center were reviewed.

Results

All patients received either chemotherapy (46.7%) or chemoradiation (53.3%). The 90-day mortality and overall morbidity rates were 0.8% and 56.7%, respectively. Respiratory complications were the most common (30.8%). Anastomotic leakage occurred in 19 patients (15.8%), who were treated by local wound care (n = 13) or surgical drainage (n = 6). Recurrent laryngeal nerve injury occurred in 12 patients (9.9%). The median length of hospital stay was 15.5 days. The rate of R0 resection was 95.8%, and the median number of nodes removed was 17.5. Over a median follow-up of 77 months, the rate of recurrence was 40.8%, and the overall survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were 91%, 75%, and 65%, respectively. The median survival time was not reached. In multivariate analysis, disease stage was the only independent significant prognostic factor.

Conclusions

Transhiatal esophagectomy is a safe and effective procedure with good long-term oncological outcomes for locally advanced tumors after neo-adjuvant treatment. It can be recommended for all patients with cancer of the gastroesophageal junction, regardless of the Siewert classification, tumor stage, and comorbidities.

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

INTRODUCTION

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

PATIENTS AND METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Impact of neoadjuvant chemotherapy on nodal regression and survival in oesophageal adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

The prognostic value of lymph node regression (LNR) following neoadjuvant chemotherapy (nCT) for oesophageal and gastro-oeosphageal adenocarcinoma remains unclear. This study aimed to characterise the long-term survival outcomes of LNR in patients having resectional surgery after nCT.

METHODS

This study included patients undergoing oesophagectomy or extended total gastrectomy for oesophageal and junctional tumours (Siewert types 1,2,3) at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham from 2012 to 2018. Lymph nodes retrieved at surgery were examined for evidence of a response to chemotherapy. Patients were classified as lymph node-negative (either negative nodes with no evidence of previous tumour involvement or negative with evidence of complete regression) or positive with either partial or no response.

RESULTS

This study identified 183 patients who received nCT, of which 71% (130/183) had positive lymph nodes. Of these 130 patients, 44% (57/130) had a lymph node response and 56% (73/130) did not. The remaining 53 patients (29.0%) had negative lymph nodes with no evidence of tumour. Lymph node responders had a significant survival benefit compared to patients without lymph node response, but shorter than those with negative lymph nodes (median: 27 vs 18 vs NR months, p < 0·001). On multivariable analysis, lymph node responders had an improved overall (Hazard ratio (HR): 0.86, 95% CI: 0.80-0.92, p < 0.001) and recurrence-free (HR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.82-0.98, p = 0.030) survival.

CONCLUSION

Lymph node regression is an important prognostic factor, warranting closer evaluation over primary tumour response to help with planning further adjuvant therapy in these patients.

Surgical Therapy of Esophageal Adenocarcinoma-Current Standards and Future Perspectives

Simple Summary

Subtotal resection of the esophagus with resection of local lymph nodes is the oncological procedure of choice for advanced esophageal cancer. Reconstruction of the intestinal tract is predominantly performed with a gastric tube. Even in specialized centers, this surgical procedure is associated with a high complication but low mortality rate. Therefore, clinical research aims to develop peri- and intra-operative strategies to improve the patient related outcome.

Abstract

Transthoracic esophagectomy is currently the predominant curative treatment option for resectable esophageal adenocarcinoma. The majority of carcinomas present as locally advanced tumors requiring multimodal strategies with either neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy or perioperative chemotherapy alone. Minimally invasive, including robotic, techniques are increasingly applied with a broad spectrum of technical variations existing for the oncological resection as well as gastric reconstruction. At the present, intrathoracic esophagogastrostomy is the preferred technique of reconstruction (Ivor Lewis esophagectomy). With standardized surgical procedures, a complete resection of the primary tumor can be achieved in almost 95% of patients. Even in expert centers, postoperative morbidity remains high, with an overall complication rate of 50–60%, whereas 30- and 90-day mortality are reported to be <2% and <6%, respectively. Due to the complexity of transthoracic esophagetomy and its associated morbidity, esophageal surgery is recommended to be performed in specialized centers with an appropriate caseload yet to be defined. In order to reduce postoperative morbidity, the selection of patients, preoperative rehabilitation and postoperative fast-track concepts are feasible strategies of perioperative management. Future directives aim to further centralize esophageal services, to individualize surgical treatment for high-risk patients and to implement intraoperative imaging modalities modifying the oncological extent of resection and facilitating surgical reconstruction.

Robotic esophagectomy versus open esophagectomy in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: a propensity-score matched analysis

We aimed to compare the short- and long-term outcomes between robotic esophagectomy (RE) and open esophagectomy (OE) in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Among the patients who underwent esophagectomy for ESCC from 2008 to 2017, 402 patients (n = 178 in RE and n = 224 in OE) were enrolled and, after propensity-score matching, 136 patients in each group were selected. The total rate of complications was comparable, whereas the rate of major complications was higher in OE (p < 0.01). Hospital stay was longer in OE (15 days in OE vs. 13 days in RE; p = 0.03) with a comparable early mortality rate. Complete resection was equally achieved in both groups (96.3% in RE vs. 97.0% in OE; p = 0.74). The numbers of retrieved lymph nodes (LN) were significantly higher in RE (42.8 in RE vs 35.3 in OE; p < 0.01), especially for LNs in the left lower cervical paratracheal, both recurrent laryngeal nerves, and paraesophageal area. The 5-year overall survival rate was higher in RE (75.1% in RE vs. 57.9% in OE; p = 0.02), whereas, the freedom from recurrence was comparable between the two groups (68.8% in RE vs. 54.7% in OE; p = 0.15). Notably, RE achieved a significantly higher rate of 5-year freedom from regional nodal recurrence than OE (81.4% in RE vs. 62.7% in OE, p = 0.03). RE contributed to a lower rate of major complications and shorter hospital stays. Furthermore, RE showed increased long-term overall survival and freedom from regional LN recurrence rates, with a higher yield of LN dissection compared to OE.

Thirty years of esophageal cancer surgery in Oulu University Hospital

Background

Esophagectomy is the mainstay of surgical treatment of esophageal cancer, but involves high operative risk. The aim of this study was to review the evolution surgical treatment of esophageal cancer in Northern Finland, with introduction of minimally invasive techniques.

Methods

All elective esophagectomies performed in Oulu University Hospital between years 1987 and 2020 were included. Treatment strategies were compared to current guidelines including staging and use of neoadjuvant therapy, and benchmark values including postoperative morbidity, hospital stay, readmissions and 90-day mortality. Long-term survival was compared to previous national studies.

Results

Between years 1987 and 2020 a total of 341 underwent an esophagectomy. Transhiatal resection was performed to 167 (49.3%), Ivor Lewis to 129 (38.1%) and McKeown to 42 (12.4%) patients. MIE was performed to 49 (14.5%) patients. During the past four years 83.7% of locally advanced diseases received neoadjuvant treatment. Since 1987, gradual improvements have occurred especially in incidence of pleural effusion requiring additional drainage procedure (highest in 2011–2013 and in last four years 14.0%), recurrent nerve injuries (highest in 2008–2010 29.4% and lowest in 2017–2020 1.8%) and in 1-year survival rate (1987–1998 68.4% vs. 2017–2020 82.1%). No major changes in comorbidity, complication rate, anastomosis leaks, hospital stay or postoperative mortality were seen.

Conclusions

Esophageal cancer surgery has gone through major changes over three decades. Current guideline-based treatment has resulted with progressive improvement in mid- and long-term survival. However, despite modern protocol, no major improvement has occurred for example in major complications, anastomosis leak rates or hospital stay.

Hand-sewn versus stapled anastomoses for esophagectomy: We will probably never know which is better

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Laparoscopic lymph node sampling: a new concept for patients with high-risk early esophagogastric junction cancer resected endoscopically

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic resection is considered a curative treatment for early upper GI cancers under certain histologic (low-risk) criteria. In tumors not completely fulfilling these criteria but resected R0 endoscopically, esophagectomy is still advised because of an increased risk of lymph node (LN) metastases (LNM). However, the benefit-risk ratio, especially in elderly patients at higher risk for radical surgery, can be debated. We now present the outcome of our case series of laparoscopic LN sampling (LLS) in patients with T1 esophagogastric junction tumors, which had been completely resected by endoscopy but did not fulfill the low-risk criteria (G1/2, m, L0, V0).

METHODS

Retrospective review was done of all patients with T1 cancer undergoing LLS with at least 1 high-risk parameter after endoscopic resection during an 8-year period. Repeated endoscopy with biopsy and abdominothoracic CT had been performed before. The patients were divided into 2 periods: before (n = 8) and after (n = 12) the introduction of an extended LLS protocol (additional resection of the left gastric artery). In cases of positive LN, patients underwent conventional oncologic surgery; if negative, follow-up was performed. The main outcome was the number of harvested LNs by means of LLS and the percentage of positive LNs found.

RESULTS

Twenty patients with cardia (n = 1) and distal esophageal/Barrett's cancer (n = 19) were included. The LN rate with use of the extended LLS technique increased by 12% (period 1: median 12 [range, 5-19; 95% CI, 3.4-15.4] vs period 2: median 17.5 [range, 12-40; 95% CI, 12.8-22.2]; P = .013). There were 2 adverse events: 1 inadvertent chest tube removal and 1 postoperative pneumonia. In 15% of cases, patients had positive LNs. and in 2 cases there was local recurrence at the endoscopic resection site, all necessitating surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

An extended technique of laparoscopic LN sampling appears to provide adequate LN numbers and is a safe approach with short hospital stay only. Only long-term follow-up of larger patient numbers will allow conclusions about miss rate as well as oncologic adequacy of this concept.

Machine Learning and Radiomics Applications in Esophageal Cancers Using Non-Invasive Imaging Methods-A Critical Review of Literature

Esophageal cancer (EC) is of public health significance as one of the leading causes of cancer death worldwide. Accurate staging, treatment planning and prognostication in EC patients are of vital importance. Recent advances in machine learning (ML) techniques demonstrate their potential to provide novel quantitative imaging markers in medical imaging. Radiomics approaches that could quantify medical images into high-dimensional data have been shown to improve the imaging-based classification system in characterizing the heterogeneity of primary tumors and lymph nodes in EC patients. In this review, we aim to provide a comprehensive summary of the evidence of the most recent developments in ML application in imaging pertinent to EC patient care. According to the published results, ML models evaluating treatment response and lymph node metastasis achieve reliable predictions, ranging from acceptable to outstanding in their validation groups. Patients stratified by ML models in different risk groups have a significant or borderline significant difference in survival outcomes. Prospective large multi-center studies are suggested to improve the generalizability of ML techniques with standardized imaging protocols and harmonization between different centers.

Comparative outcomes of transthoracic versus transhiatal esophagectomy

BACKGROUND

Surgical resection has become a mainstay of therapy for locally advanced esophageal cancer and can increase survival significantly. With the advancement of minimally invasive surgery, there is still debate on the best approach for esophagectomy. We report a modern analysis of outcomes with transthoracic versus transhiatal esophagectomy.

METHODS

A prospectively managed esophagectomy database was queried for patients undergoing transthoracic or transhiatal esophagectomy between 1996 and 2016. Continuous variables were compared using the Kruskal-Wallis or the analysis of variance tests as appropriate. Pearson χ² test was used to compare categorical variables. All statistical tests were 2-sided and an α (type I) error < .05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

A total of 846 patients underwent esophagectomy with a median age of 66 (28-86) years. There was no difference in estimated blood loss for transthoracic and transhiatal, but mean operating room times were longer for transthoracic versus transhiatal (P < .001), and the number of retrieved lymph nodes was higher for transthoracic versus transhiatal (P < .002). Postoperative complications occurred in 207 (29%) transthoracic patients vs 59 (44.7%) transhiatal patients, (P < .001). The most common complications in transthoracic versus transhiatal techniques, respectively, were anastomotic leaks: 4.3% vs 9.8%; (P = .01), anastomotic stricture 7% vs 26.5%; (P < .001), and pneumonia 12.6% vs 22.7%; (P < .002). Median survival significantly improved in patients undergoing transthoracic (62 months) vs transhiatal (39 months) P = .03.

CONCLUSION

We found that a transthoracic approach was associated with lower pneumonias, anastomotic leaks, wound infections, and strictures, with an improvement in nodal harvest. Survival was also significantly improved in patients who underwent transthoracic esophagectomy.

Safety comparison of minimally invasive abdomen-only esophagectomy versus minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

We report mortality and post-operative complications from esophageal resection in the treatment of gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma or stricture, comparing a minimally invasive abdomen-only esophagectomy (MIAE) approach with a minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy (MIILE) approach.

METHODS

A single-center retrospective cohort study of patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma or stricture treated by either MIAE or MIILE was conducted. MIAE was offered for strictures less than five centimeters or cancers that were American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) Stage ≤ T2 without lymphadenopathy. Patients treated with these surgical techniques were analyzed to assess pre-operative risk, intra and post-operative variables, adverse events, and overall survival.

RESULTS

This study included 17 patients undergoing MIAE and 32 patients treated with MIILE. There were a fewer median number of lymph nodes resected (p < 0.001) and shorter operative duration (p < 0.001) for MIAE compared to MIILE. MIAE patients also had significantly higher Charlson Comorbidity Index scores and ACS National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) surgical risk values than MIILE patients (p < 0.05). There was no difference in median estimated blood loss, length of stay, pulmonary or cardiac complications between groups. There was no significant difference in 90-day survival.

CONCLUSION

A minimally invasive abdomen-only approach in a specific patient population is comparable in safety to a minimally invasive Ivor Lewis approach, with associated shorter median operative duration. MIAE patients had significantly greater pre-operative comorbidities and higher calculated peri-operative risk of complication but demonstrated similar post-operative outcomes. This suggests that MIAE may be a suitable surgical approach for treating gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma or stricture in patients deemed unsuitable for MIILE.

TRANSHIATAL ESOPHAGECTOMY IN SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA OF THE ESOPHAGUS: WHAT ARE THE BEST INDICATIONS?

BACKGROUND

Overall survival in patients who underwent transhiatal esophagectomy submitted or not to neoadjuvant therapy. Southern Brazil has one of the highest incidences of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in the world. Transthoracic esophagectomy allows more complete abdominal and thoracic lymphadenectomy than transhiatal. However, this one is associated with less morbidity.

AIM

To analyze the outcomes and prognostic factors of squamous esophageal cancer treated with transhiatal procedure.

METHODS

All patients selected for transhiatal approach were included as a potentially curative treatment and overall survival, operative time, lymph node analysis and use of neoadjuvant therapy were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 96 patients were evaluated. The overall 5-year survival was 41.2%. Multivariate analysis showed that operative time and presence of positive lymph nodes were both associated with a worse outcome, while neoadjuvant therapy was associated with better outcome. The negative lymph-node group had a 5-year survival rate of 50.2%.

CONCLUSION

Transhiatal esophagectomy can be safely used in patients with malnutrition degree that allows the procedure, in those with associated respiratory disorders and in the elderly. It provides considerable long-term survival, especially in the absence of metastases to local lymph nodes. The wider use of neoadjuvant therapy has the potential to further increase long-term survival.

Meta-analysis of prognostic factors of overall survival in patients undergoing oesophagectomy for oesophageal cancer

INTRODUCTION

Currently, the American Joint Commission on Cancer (AJCC) staging system is used for prognostication for oesophageal cancer. However, several prognostically important factors have been reported but not incorporated. This meta-analysis aimed to characterize the impact of preoperative, operative, and oncological factors on the prognosis of patients undergoing curative resection for oesophageal cancer.

METHODS

This systematic review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines and eligible studies were identified through a search of PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases up to 31 December 2018. A meta-analysis was conducted with the use of random-effects modeling to determine pooled univariable hazard ratios (HRs). The study was prospectively registered with the PROSPERO database (Registration: CRD42018157966).

RESULTS

One-hundred and seventy-one articles including 73,629 patients were assessed quantitatively. Of the 122 factors associated with survival, 39 were significant on pooled analysis. Of these. the strongly associated prognostic factors were 'pathological' T stage (HR: 2.07, CI95%: 1.77-2.43, P < 0.001), 'pathological' N stage (HR: 2.24, CI95%: 1.95-2.59, P < 0.001), perineural invasion (HR: 1.54, CI95%: 1.36-1.74, P < 0.001), circumferential resection margin (HR: 2.17, CI95%: 1.82-2.59, P < 0.001), poor tumor grade (HR: 1.53, CI95%: 1.34-1.74, P < 0.001), and high neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio (HR: 1.47, CI95%: 1.30-1.66, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Several tumor biological variables not included in the AJCC 8th edition classification can impact on overall survival. Incorporation and validation of these factors into prognostic models and next edition of the AJCC system will enable personalized approach to prognostication and treatment.

The Value of Lymphadenectomy Post-Neoadjuvant Therapy in Carcinoma Esophagus: a Review

Lymph nodal metastasis is one of the most important prognostic factors determining survival in patients with carcinoma esophagus. Radical esophagectomy, with the resection of surrounding lymph nodes, is considered the prime treatment of carcinoma esophagus. An extensive lymphadenectomy improves the accuracy of staging and betters locoregional control, but its effect on survival is still not apparent and carries the disadvantage of increased morbidity. The extent of lymphadenectomy during esophagectomy also remains debatable, with many studies revealing contradictory results, especially in the era of neoadjuvant therapy. The pattern of distribution and the number of nodal metastasis are modified by neoadjuvant therapy. The paper reviews the existing evidence to determine whether increased lymph node yield improves oncological outcomes in patients undergoing esophagectomy with particular attention to those patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy.

[Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy or chemotherapy for locally advanced esophageal cancer?]

BACKGROUND

According to international guidelines neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and chemotherapy are recommended for the treatment of locally advanced esophageal cancer. The treatment approach depends on the tumor entity (adenocarcinoma vs. squamous cell carcinoma).

OBJECTIVE

What benefits do patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer have from neoadjuvant treatment? Is there information in the international literature on whether a particular neoadjuvant treatment is preferred? Does the type of neoadjuvant treatment depend on factors other than the tumor entity? Is there a standard in the drug composition of chemotherapy or a clearly defined chemoradiotherapy regimen?

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A review, evaluation and critical analysis of the international literature were carried out.

RESULTS

Patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer benefit from a neoadjuvant treatment. The current data situation for squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus demonstrates a better response to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy compared to chemotherapy alone. Locally advanced adenocarcinoma of the esophagus can be treated with combined neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy as well as by chemotherapy alone. Both lead to an improvement in the prognosis. There are often differences particularly among radiation treatment regimens in the different centers. Furthermore, the localization of the tumor can also be important for treatment decisions.

CONCLUSION

A neoadjuvant treatment is clearly recommended for locally advanced esophageal cancer. Currently, chemoradiotherapy according to the CROSS protocol is preferred for squamous cell carcinoma. For adenocarcinoma both chemotherapy according to the FLOT protocol as well as chemoradiotherapy in a neoadjuvant treatment concept lead to an improvement in the prognosis.

Transcervical (SP) and Transhiatal DaVinci Robotic Esophagectomy: A Cadaveric Study

BACKGROUND

This is a preclinical cadaveric study to investigate the feasibility of a fully robotic McKeown esophagectomy in simultaneous rendezvous technique using the DaVinci X for transhiatal dissection and the DaVinci single port (SP) for transcervical dissection.

METHODS

Two transcervical esophagectomies with the DaVinci SP surgical system were performed as training procedures. In the third transcervical cadaveric procedure, the DaVinci SP was installed for the transcervical approach and the DaVinci X surgical system for the abdominal transhiatal phase. Primary outcomes were operating time and lymphadenectomy.

RESULTS

The mobilization of the esophagus was successfully completed in 118 minutes by using the DaVinci SP for the transcervical phase and the DaVinci X for the transhiatal abdominal phase simultaneously. In total 18 lymph nodes were dissected in the thorax; 3 were located paratracheal right, 3 paratracheal left, 4 subcarinal, 4 para-aortic, 2 paraesophageal upper mediastinal, and 2 paraesophageal middle mediastinal.

CONCLUSION

This preclinical study demonstrated that a fully robotic McKeown esophagectomy in simultaneous rendezvous technique using the DaVinci X for transhiatal dissection and the DaVinci SP for transcervical dissection was feasible with adequate lymphadenectomy in a cadaver model. Future research will elucidate the indications for the use of the fully robotic transhiatal and transcervical esophagectomy.

Current Issues in Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy

Minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) was first introduced in the 1990s. Currently, it is a widely accepted surgical approach for the treatment of esophageal cancer, as it is an oncologically sound procedure; its advantages when compared to open procedures, including reduction in postoperative complications, reduction in the length of hospital stay, and improvement in quality of life, are well documented. However, debates are still ongoing about the safety and efficacy of MIE. The present review focuses on some of the current issues related to conventional MIE and robot-assisted MIE based on evidence from the current literature.

Management of Locally Advanced Esophageal Cancer

Management of locally advanced esophageal cancer is evolving. Trimodality therapy with chemoradiation followed by surgical resection has become the standard of care. However, the value of planned surgery after response to therapy is in question. In this article, we discuss the current practice principles and evidence for the treatment of locally advanced esophageal cancer. Topics will include various neoadjuvant therapies, trimodality versus bimodality therapy, and outcomes for salvage esophagectomies. In addition, emerging novel therapies, such as HER2 inhibitors and immunotherapy, are available for unresectable or metastatic disease, enabling a greater armamentarium of tumor biology-specific treatments.

Quercetin as an anticancer agent: Focus on esophageal cancer

Esophageal cancer (EC) is regarded as the sixth highest contributor to all cancer-related mortality, worldwide. In spite of advances in the treatment of EC, currently used methods remain ineffective. Quercetin, as a dietary antioxidant, is a plant flavonol from the flavonoid group of polyphenols, and can be found in numerous vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Quercetin can affect the processes of cancer-related diseases via cell proliferation inhibitory effects, potential apoptosis effects, and antioxidant properties. Of the various types of cancer, the use of quercetin has now become prominent in the treatment of EC. In this review, we discuss how quercetin may be an important supplement for the prevention, treatment, and management of EC, owing to its natural origin, and low-cost relative to synthetic cancer drugs. However, most findings cited in the current study are based on in vitro and in vivo studies, and thus, further human-based research is necessitated. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: In spite of advances in the treatment of esophageal cancer, currently used methods remain ineffective, therefore, an alternative or complementary therapy is required. Quercetin, as a dietary antioxidant, can affect the processes of cancer-related diseases via cell proliferation inhibitory effects, potential proapoptotic functions, and antioxidant properties. Quercetin may be an important supplement for the prevention, treatment, and management of EC, owing to its natural origin. The low cost of quercetin as supplement or dietary intake, relative to synthetic cancer drugs, is an advantage of the compound which should be considered.

Different response rates to chemotherapy between Japanese and German esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: patients may be influenced by ERCC1 or ABCB1

Aim: To find out differences in biomarkers between Japanese and German patients responsible for response after neoadjuvant radio/chemotherapy and survival for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Materials & methods: A total of 60 patients from Japan and 127 patients from Germany with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma were analyzed according to three SNPs by real-time PCR. Results: The distribution of the genotypes of ERCC1 rs16115 and ABCB1 C3435T rs1045642 was significantly different between both patients' groups. Japanese patients had significantly less good response to 5-fluorouracil/cisplatin chemotherapy. The influence of the three SNPs on response varied between patients from Japan and Germany. Conclusion: Different expressions of ERCC1 and ABCB1 SNPs of Japanese patients compared with the German patients partially explain the different response.

Reflux Disease and Adenocarcinoma of the Esophagus and Cardia: Global Management and Surgical Treatment

Introduction: Adenocarcinoma of the esophagus and cardia is a rare cancer, associated with chronic reflux disease. Its associated mortality is still very high, reflecting both aggressive biology and lack of adequate treatments. The aim of this article was to describe up to date management of these complex tumors. Materials and Methods: A systematic review of the literature was performed, using PubMed Central database. Articles published after the year 2000 were included, with no language exclusion. Results: Reflux disease and Barrett esophagus are strongly associated with esophageal adenocarcinoma. A strict surveillance should be initiated at diagnosis. Both proton pump inhibitors and antireflux surgery failed to influence the incidence of cancer. Surgery and multimodal therapies are keystones for curative treatment, but no clear consensus exists for the best option. A clear trend in standardization of the surgical approach is observed since last ten years. However, the optimal approach for the tumors of the cardia is still not completely set. Complication rate is still high, but real progresses are made, through the implementation of less invasive techniques. Conclusion: Progress has been made in the management of esophageal cancer. However, the multiplicity of choices failed to lead to standardization. The development of international consensus regarding multimodal treatment and surgical approaches is needed.

C-reactive Protein Levels After Esophagectomy Are Associated With Increased Surgical Trauma and Complications

BACKGROUND

With the introduction of minimally invasive esophagectomy, postoperative complications rates have decreased. Daily laboratory tests are used to screen patients for postoperative complications. The course of inflammatory indicators after esophagectomy after different surgical approaches has not been described yet. The aim of the study was to describe the postoperative C-reactive protein (CRP) and leukocyte levels after different surgical approaches for esophagectomy and relate it to postoperative complications.

METHODS

Between 2010 and 2018, 217 consecutive patients underwent thoracoabdominal esophagectomy with gastric conduit reconstruction. Blood tests to assess CRP and leukocytes were performed daily in all patients. Differences between treatment groups were analyzed with a linear mixed model. All postoperative complications were recorded in a prospective database. Prognostic factors were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression modeling.

RESULTS

The study evaluated 4 different esophagectomy techniques: open (n = 57), hybrid (n = 53), totally minimally invasive (n = 52), and robot-assisted minimally invasive (n = 55). The increase of inflammatory indicators was significantly higher after open esophagectomy on the first 2 postoperative days compared with the 3 minimally invasive procedures (P < .001). Postoperative CRP values exceeding 200 mg/L on the second postoperative day and open esophagectomy were independently associated with postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Open esophagectomy results in significantly higher CRP and leukocyte values compared with hybrid, minimally invasive, and robot-assisted minimally invasive esophagectomy. Open esophagectomy and a CRP increase on the second postoperative day above 200 mg/L are independent positive predictors for postoperative complications in multivariate analysis.

Management of Liver Oligometastatic Esophageal Cancer: Overview and Critical Analysis of the Different Loco-Regional Treatments

Esophageal cancer (EC) is an aggressive disease that is associated with a poor prognosis. Since metastastic EC is usually considered suitable only for palliative therapy with an estimated 5-year overall survival (OS) less than 5%, the optimal management of patients with liver oligometastatic EC (LOEC) is still undefined. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the different treatment options for LOEC. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane to identify articles evaluating different treatment strategies for LOEC. Among 828 records that were identified, 20 articles met the inclusion criteria. These studies included patients who have undergone any type of surgical procedure and/or loco-regional therapy. Liver resection resulted in the best survival for patients with low tumor burden (3 lesions): 5-year OS 30–50% versus 8–12% after only chemotherapy (CHT). The 5-year OS of loco-regional therapies was 23% with a local recurrence risk ranging 0–8% for small lesions (2 to 3 cm). An aggressive multidisciplinary approach for LOEC patients may improve survival. Surgery seems to be the treatment of choice for resectable LOEC. If unfeasible, loco-regional therapies may be considered. In order to better select these patients and offer a chance of cure, prospective trials and a definition of treatment protocols are needed.

Comparison of the 8th UICC staging system for esophageal and gastric cancers in Siewert type II junctional adenocarcinomas

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to evaluate whether adenocarcinomas of the esophagogastric junction (AEG) are better staged as cancers of the esophagus (TNM-EC) or stomach (TNM-GC) according to the 8th edition of the UICC classification.

METHODS

A single-center cohort of 246 patients operated on for AEG type II was staged according to the 8th edition of the UICC classification for esophageal and stomach cancer. Kaplan-Meier and univariate Cox regression analyses were performed to investigate the impact on survival.

RESULTS

For AEG type II TNM-EC classified most of the patients (n = 126; 51.2%) to UICC stage IIIC and IVA while TNM-GC more evenly distributed the patients over the stages. Hazard ratios increased in between all stages in a stepwise manner except between stage IA and IIA for TNM-EC and between stage IIB and IIIA for TNM-GC. Survival curves for TNM-GC demonstrated significant differences between all four major UICC stages, while in TNM-EC no significant difference between stage I and II was found. When comparing the area under the curves of both staging systems a marginal superiority for TNM-EC was found.

CONCLUSION

Neither the esophageal nor the stomach staging system is flawless in predicting survival in AEG type II. A marginal superiority of the TNM-EC was found in discriminating survival rates after three and five years. However, the advantage of the TNM-GC lies in the division of the N3 category into N3a and N3b. We therefor suggest a similar division in future TNM-EC classifications to improve its prognostic value.

[Updated German S3 guidelines on esophageal cancer and supplements from a surgical perspective]

The updated German S3 guidelines recommend transthoracic subtotal esophagectomy with 2‑field lymphadenectomy for surgical treatment of esophageal cancer in patients with squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric (AEG type I) junction of the middle and lower third. For AEG type III transhiatal extended total gastrectomy with distal esophageal resection is favored. Patients with AEG type II can be treated by both procedures under the prerequisite that an R0 resection can be achieved. A limited resection of the distal esophagus and the proximal stomach can only be considered in cT1 N0 M0 possibly cT2 AEG junction without an oncological risk constellation, i.e. grade G1/G2, intestinal type and no poorly cohesive carcinoma, because the rate of lymph node metastasis at the distal stomach is less than 2%. Minimally invasive procedures provide advantages compared to open esophagectomy due to the lower rate of postoperative total and especially pulmonary complications. This is true for hybrid esophagectomy (laparoscopy and thoracotomy) versus open access in cases of intrathoracic anastomoses and for total minimally invasive esophagectomy including robotic techniques versus open access in cervical esophagogastrostomy.

Neoadjuvant chemoradiation for patients with advanced oesophageal cancer - which response grading system best impacts prognostic discrimination?

AIMS

Neoadjuvant chemoradiation reduces tumour volume and improves the R0 resection rate, followed by extended survival for patients with advanced oesophageal cancer. The degree of tumour regression has high prognostic relevance. To date, there is still no generally accepted tumour regression grading system. The aim of this study was to compare the prognostic discrimination power of different histological regression grading systems: (i) the fibrosis/tumour ratio within the primary tumour (Mandard classification), (ii) the percentage of residual vital tumour cells (VTC) compared to the original primary tumour (Cologne Regression) and (iii) the ypT category, in patients with cT3 carcinoma of the oesophagus after neoadjuvant chemoradiation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This study included 216 patients with oesophageal cancer clinically staged as cT3NxM0 and treated from 2009 to 2012 with standardised chemoradiation followed by oesophagectomy [median age 62 years, 176 (81%) male and 138 (64%) adenocarcinoma patients]. The subgroup frequencies of the three classification systems were ypT category: ypT0 = 18%, ypT1 = 14%, ypT2 = 23%, ypT3 = 44%, ypT4 = 1%; Mandard classification: TRG1 = 18%, TRG2 = 26%, TRG3 = 24%, TRG4 = 30%, TRG5 = 2%; and Cologne Regression Scale: no tumour = 18%, 1-10% VTC = 27%, 10-50% VTC = 26% and >50% VTC = 29%. The Mandard and Cologne Regression classifications showed better prognostic differentiation for the subgroups than the ypT category. The four-tiered Cologne Regression system had a good prognostic relevance. Comparing results of the re-evaluated Cologne Regression classification with the classification by routine pathological report showed very good inter-rater agreement, with kappa value 0.891.

CONCLUSION

Compared to the original primary tumour, the tumour regression grading system using the percentage of residual vital tumour has prognostic relevance.

Stenosis of the celiac trunk is associated with anastomotic leak after Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy

Transthoracic esophagectomy with gastric tube formation is the surgical treatment of choice for esophageal cancer. The surgical reconstruction induces changes of gastric microcirculation, which are recognized as potential risk factors of anastomotic leak. This prospective observational study investigates the association of celiac trunk (TC) stenosis with postoperative anastomotic leak. One hundred fifty-four consecutive patients with esophageal cancer scheduled for Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy were included. Preoperative staging computed tomography (CT) was used to identify TC stenosis. Any narrowing of the lumen due to atherosclerotic changes was classified as stenosis. Percentage of stenotic changes was calculated using the North American Symptomatic Carotid Endarterectomy Trial formula. Multivariable analysis was used to identify possible risk factors for leak. The overall incidence of TC stenosis was 40.9%. Anastomotic leak was identified in 15 patients (9.7%). Incidence of anastomotic leak in patients with stenosis was 19.4% compared to 2.3% in patients without stenosis. Incidence of stenosis in patients with leak was 86.7% (13 of 15 patients) and significantly higher than 38.8% (54 of 139 patients) in patients without leak (P < 0.001). There was a significant difference in median degree of TC stenosis (50.0% vs 39.4%; P = 0.032) in patients with and without leak. In the multivariable model, TC stenosis was an independent risk factor for anastomotic leak (odds ratio: 5.98, 95% CI: 1.58-22.61). TC stenosis is associated with postoperative anastomotic leak after Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy. Routine assessment of TC for possible stenosis is recommended to identify patients at risk.

Effect of lymph node examined count on accurate staging and survival of resected esophageal cancer

Background

We examined the association between numbers of lymph nodes examined (LNEs) and accurate staging and survival to determine the optimal LNE count during esophagectomy using data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) cancer registry and the Department of Thoracic Surgery of a single institution (SI).

Methods

A total of 7356 EC patients met our inclusion criteria from the SEER database and 1275 patients from SI. We applied multivariate models to investigate the relationship between the LNE count and LN metastasis and cancer‐specific survival (CSS). Odds ratios (ORs) and hazard ratios (HRs) generated by the multivariate models were fitted with Locally Weighted Scatterplot Smoothing, and the structural breakpoints were determined by the Chow test.

Results

Higher numbers of LNEs were linked to a higher proportion of LN metastasis and better CSS in both cohorts. Cut‐point analysis determined a threshold of LNEs of 12 for adenocarcinoma and 14 for esophageal squamous cell cancer (ESCC) considering accurate staging, and 15 for adenocarcinoma and 14 for ESCC considering OS. The cut‐points for CSS were examined in the SEER database and validated in the divided cohort from SI (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

A greater number of LNEs are significantly associated with more accurate N staging and better survival in EC patients. We recommend 15 and 14 as the threshold LNE counts for adenocarcinoma and ESCC patients, respectively.

Surgical approach and the impact of epidural analgesia on survival after esophagectomy for cancer: A population-based retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Esophagectomy for esophageal cancer carries high morbidity and mortality, particularly in older patients. Transthoracic esophagectomy allows formal lymphadenectomy, but leads to greater perioperative morbidity and pain than transhiatal esophagectomy. Epidural analgesia may attenuate the stress response and be less immunosuppressive than opioids, potentially affecting long-term outcomes. These potential benefits may be more pronounced for transthoracic esophagectomy due to its greater physiologic impact. We evaluated the impact of epidural analgesia on survival and recurrence after transthoracic versus transhiatal esophagectomy.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed using the linked Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER)-Medicare database. Patients aged ≥66 years with locoregional esophageal cancer diagnosed 1994-2009 who underwent esophagectomy were identified, with follow-up through December 31, 2013. Epidural receipt and surgical approach were identified from Medicare claims. Survival analyses adjusting for hospital esophagectomy volume, surgical approach, and epidural use were performed. A subgroup analysis restricted to esophageal adenocarcinoma patients was performed.

RESULTS

Among 1,921 patients, 38% underwent transhiatal esophagectomy (n = 730) and 62% underwent transthoracic esophagectomy (n = 1,191). 61% (n = 1,169) received epidurals and 39% (n = 752) did not. Epidural analgesia was associated with transthoracic approach and higher volume hospitals. Patients with epidural analgesia had better 90-day survival. Five-year survival was higher with transhiatal esophagectomy (37.2%) than transthoracic esophagectomy (31.0%, p = 0.006). Among transthoracic esophagectomy patients, epidural analgesia was associated with improved 5-year survival (33.5% epidural versus 26.5% non-epidural, p = 0.012; hazard ratio 0.81, 95% confidence interval [0.70, 0.93]). Among the subgroup of esophageal adenocarcinoma patients undergoing transthoracic esophagectomy, epidural analgesia remained associated with improved 5-year survival (hazard ratio 0.81, 95% confidence interval [0.67, 0.96]); this survival benefit persisted in sensitivity analyses adjusting for propensity to receive an epidural.

CONCLUSION

Among patients undergoing transthoracic esophagectomy, including a subgroup restricted to esophageal adenocarcinoma, epidural analgesia was associated with improved survival even after adjusting for other factors.

Novel abdominal approach for dissection of advanced type II/III adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction: a new surgical option

OBJECTIVE

The optimal surgical approach for Siewert type II adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG) is controversial. In this study, we evaluated the outcomes of total gastrectomy for Siewert type II/III AEG via the left thoracic surgical approach that is used at our center.

METHODS

We identified 41 patients with advanced AEG in our retrospective database and analyzed their 3-year survival rate, upper surgical margin, postoperative complications, and index of estimated benefit from lymph node dissection.

RESULTS

The 3-year overall survival rate of the whole group was 63%, but no difference was observed between Siewert type II and III AEGs. Esophageal exposure and lymphadenectomy were sufficient. Eight patients developed postoperative complications, but none of the patients developed anastomotic leakage. Dissection of lymph node station Nos. 19 and 110 may be necessary for patients with Siewert type II AEG. Multivariate analysis revealed that the cT category was the only independent risk factor.

CONCLUSIONS

Total gastrectomy via an approach from the abdominal cavity into the thoracic cavity may be an optimal surgical technique for advanced Siewert type II AEG.

Esophagectomy from then to now

We have come a long way from the onset of surgery for esophageal cancer. Surgical resection is pivotal for the long-term survival in patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer. Moreover, advancements in post-operative care and surgical techniques have contributed to reductions in morbidity. More recently minimally invasive esophagectomy has been increasingly used in patients undergoing esophageal cancer resection. Potential advantages of MIE include: the decreased pulmonary complications, lower post-operative wound infection, decreased post-operative pain, and decreased length of hospitalization. The application of robotics to esophageal surgery is becoming more widespread. Robotic esophageal surgery has potential advantages over the known limitations of laparoscopic and thoracoscopic approaches to esophagectomy while adhering to the benefits of the minimally invasive approach. This paper is a review of the evolution from open esophagectomy to the most recent robotic approach.

Surgical evaluation of lymph nodes in esophageal adenocarcinoma: Standardized approach or personalized medicine?

The extent of lymphadenectomy for esophageal adenocarcinoma remains controversial. Outstanding issues include the appropriate technical approach such as transthoracic versus transhiatal, or open versus minimally invasive, both of which have implications on overall lymph node harvest numbers and morbidity. Recent data on the relationship of total number of lymph nodes harvested and oncologic survival have been conflicting, due in part to a likely differential impact of lymphadenectomy on survival based on tumor stage and response to neoadjuvant therapy. While standardizing the extent of lymphadenectomy may be desirable, a more useful approach might be to tailor lymphadenectomy considering the multidimensional impact of surgical technique and multimodal treatment strategy.

[New S3 guideline for esophageal cancer : Important surgical aspects]

The current German S3 guideline represents the recommendations for the diagnosis and therapy of squamous cell carcinomas and adenocarcinomas of the esophagus based on evidence from the literature and interdisciplinary expert consensus. Esophagogastroscopy with biopsy, endosonography, and spiral CT scan of the neck, thorax, and abdomen are decisive in staging and the choice of therapy. For a curative approach, surgery, especially transthoracic esophagectomy and gastric pull-up, is the most important therapeutic option, except in the case of mucosal carcinomas or cervical squamous cell carcinomas. The significance of total minimally invasive esophageal resection or a hybrid technique is still uncertain. In category cT3 or resectable cT4 tumors, neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy should be performed in squamous cell carcinomas or adenocarcinomas. Alternatively, perioperative chemotherapy can be carried out in adenocarcinoma. Palliative resections should be avoided and replaced by interventional procedures for palliation.