[Video-assisted closed-thorax esophagectomy in cancer. A technical proposal]. / L'esofagectomia a torace chiuso videoassistita per cancro. Una proposta di tecnica.

ABSTRACT

Blunt transhiatal esophagectomy is largely performed in selected cases of esophageal cancer following the experience of Mark Orringer. We have recently performed five consecutive video-laparoscopy-assisted transhiatal esophagectomies in order to help the esophageal dissection and to avoid injuries to mediastinal structures. In our experience a routine use of laparoscopic assistance during transhiatal esophageal dissection improves the safety of this technique and lowers postoperative complications. The results recently reported from neoadjuvant treatments (radio-chemotherapy) emphasize the role of transhiatal esophagectomy for cancer.