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Background: Pulmonary complications are the most common morbidity after oesophagectomy, contributing to mortality and prolonged postoperative recovery, and have a negative impact on health-related quality of life. A variety of single or bundled interventions in the perioperative setting have been developed to reduce the incidence of pulmonary complications. Significant variation in practice exists across the UK. The aim of this modified Delphi consensus was to deliver clear evidence-based consensus recommendations regarding intraoperative and postoperative care that may reduce pulmonary complications after oesophagectomy. Methods: With input from a multidisciplinary group of 23 experts in the perioperative management of patients undergoing surgery for oesophageal cancer, a modified Delphi method was employed. Following an initial systematic review of relevant literature, a range of anaesthetic, surgical, and postoperative care interventions were identified. These were then discussed during a two-part virtual conference. Recommendation statements were drafted, refined, and agreed by all attendees. The level of evidence supporting each statement was considered. Results: Consensus was reached on 12 statements on topics including operative approach, pyloric drainage strategies, intraoperative fluid and ventilation strategies, perioperative analgesia, postoperative feeding plans, and physiotherapy interventions. Seven additional questions concerning the perioperative management of patients undergoing oesophagectomy were highlighted to guide future research. Conclusion: Clear consensus recommendations regarding intraoperative and postoperative interventions that may reduce pulmonary complications after oesophagectomy are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Textbook outcome (TO) is a composite measure representing an ideal perioperative course, which has been utilized to assess the quality of care in oesophagogastric cancer (OGC) surgery. We aim to determine TO rates among OGC patients in a UK tertiary center, investigate predictors of TO attainment, and evaluate the relationship between TO and survival. A retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected departmental database between 2006 and 2021 was conducted. Patients that underwent radical OGC surgery with curative intent were included. TO attainment required margin-negative resection, adequate lymphadenectomy, uncomplicated postoperative course, and no hospital readmission. Predictors of TO were investigated using multivariable logistic regression. The association between TO and survival was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression modeling. In sum, 667 esophageal cancer and 312 gastric cancer patients were included. TO was achieved in 35.1% of esophagectomy patients and 51.3% of gastrectomy patients. Several factors were independently associated with a low likelihood of TO attainment: T3 stage (odds ratio (OR): 0.41, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.22-0.79], p = 0.008) and T4 stage (OR:0.26, 95% CI [0.08-0.72], p = 0.013) in the esophagectomy cohort and high BMI (OR:0.93, 95% CI [0.88-0.98], p = 0.011) in the gastrectomy cohort. TO attainment was associated with greater overall survival and recurrence-free survival in esophagectomy and gastrectomy cohorts. TO is a relevant quality metric that can be utilized to compare surgical performance between centers and investigate patients at risk of TO failure. Enhancement of preoperative care measures can improve TO rates and, subsequently, long-term survival., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.)

Recent national audit has shown that levels of minimally invasive esophagectomy for cancer have increased to around 45% in the UK. The hybrid approach is the most common, with a laparoscopic abdominal phase and an open thoracic dissection. A number of centers have now adopted a two-phase Ivor–Lewis minimally invasive esophagectomy using a laparoscopic abdominal phase, followed by a thoracoscopic chest phase with a mini-thoracotomy to extract the specimen. The two-phase nature of the procedure lengthens the operative time and makes returning to the abdominal cavity difficult. The thoracotomy incision can also be painful and may reduce respiratory function post operatively. This report describes a novel single-phase minimally invasive left-sided technique with a mini-laparotomy for specimen extraction. This method offers excellent hiatal exposure, avoids a thoracotomy, and shortens the procedure time. Minimally invasive left-sided esophagectomy is a new useful approach for tumors located at the gastroesophageal junction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Early cancer recurrence after oesophagectomy is a common problem, with an incidence of 20–30 per cent despite the widespread use of neoadjuvant treatment. Quantification of this risk is difficult and existing models perform poorly. This study aimed to develop a predictive model for early recurrence after surgery for oesophageal adenocarcinoma using a large multinational cohort and machine learning approaches. Methods: Consecutive patients who underwent oesophagectomy for adenocarcinoma and had neoadjuvant treatment in one Dutch and six UK oesophagogastric units were analysed. Using clinical characteristics and postoperative histopathology, models were generated using elastic net regression (ELR) and the machine learning methods random forest (RF) and extreme gradient boosting (XGB). Finally, a combined (ensemble) model of these was generated. The relative importance of factors to outcome was calculated as a percentage contribution to the model. Results: A total of 812 patients were included. The recurrence rate at less than 1 year was 29·1 per cent. All of the models demonstrated good discrimination. Internally validated areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUCs) were similar, with the ensemble model performing best (AUC 0·791 for ELR, 0·801 for RF, 0·804 for XGB, 0·805 for ensemble). Performance was similar when internal–external validation was used (validation across sites, AUC 0·804 for ensemble). In the final model, the most important variables were number of positive lymph nodes (25·7 per cent) and lymphovascular invasion (16·9 per cent). Conclusion: The model derived using machine learning approaches and an international data set provided excellent performance in quantifying the risk of early recurrence after surgery, and will be useful in prognostication for clinicians and patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Endoluminal vacuum therapy (EVT) is an effective treatment for anastomotic leak (AL) following esophagectomy. A novel application of EVT is to utilise its effect to improve microcirculation and granulation at the anastomosis pre-emptively to reduce the risk of AL. We describe a unique method of positioning a fenestrated surgical drain with applied vacuum suction at the level of the anastomosis following minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE), with the aim of reducing AL rate and postoperative morbidity. Methods A retrospective cohort comparison was performed on consecutive MIEs from 2019 to 2023. All operations were performed by experienced esophagogastric surgeons at a tertiary centre in the UK. Included patients were all adults undergoing MIE for esophageal cancer. Patients who underwent pre-emptive EVT (pEVT) with surgical drain following MIE were compared with a control group who underwent MIE alone. All patients followed the same enhanced recovery protocol with pEVT removed two to five days post-operatively. The primary outcome assessed was AL, secondary outcomes included: length of stay (LOS), readmission to Intensive care, complications (Clavien-Dindo) and 90-day mortality with minimum 90-days follow-up. Results 72 patients were included, 25 patients underwent MIE with pEVT compared with 47 in the control. The AL rate in the pEVT group was 8% compared with 21.3% in the control (RRR 62%, p = 0.13). All ALs following pEVT were managed successfully with EVT alone. There was a reduced risk of aspiration pneumonia (RR:0.37, p = 0.22) and readmission to ICU (RR:0.24, p = 0.049) following pEVT. There was 0%, 90-day mortality in both groups and no significant difference in median LOS (7 vs 9 days, p = 0.72 (pEVT vs Control)). However, a higher risk of stricturing following pEVT was noted (RR:3.76, p = 0.04). Conclusion Our data suggests pEVT with a surgical drain may be a safe and effective method of reducing AL rate following MIE. Additionally, it confers the benefit of being an effective treatment for AL should this complication arise. There was significant increase in benign stricturing requiring dilatation following pEVT, however, this may be attributable to other operative factors. Our results support the need for further prospective studies such as a randomised controlled trial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complications are frequent after oesophagectomy, and there is evidence these adversely impact long-term prognosis. However, the effect of multiple complications, and the absolute magnitude of effect on survival is unclear. This study aimed to examine these effects in a single high-volume UK unit. Patients undergoing oesophagectomy for cancer and who survived to 90 days post-oesophagectomy were analysed. Complications were graded according to the Clavien-Dindo (CD) classification and the Comprehensive Complication Index (CCI). The effect and magnitude of effect of complications on survival were assessed using multivariable cox regression and the risk-adjusted population attributable fraction. In total, 380 patients were included. Complications occurred in 251 (66.1%). Suffering ≥3 complications (HR 1.89, 95%CI 1.13–3.16, p = 0.015) or an unplanned escalation in care (HR 2.22, 95%CI 1.43–3.45, p < 0.001) significantly reduced survival whereas pulmonary complications and anastomotic leak did not. Patients with a CCI>30 had worse overall survival (HR 1.91, 95%CI 1.32–2.76, p < 0.001) and CCI>30 due to multiple minor complications gave a worse prognosis compared to CCI>30 due to major complications (HR 2.44, 95%CI 1.14–5.20, p = 0.022). An estimated 9.1% (95%CI 3.4–14.4%) of deaths at 5 years were attributable to a CCI>30. Long-term survival following oesophagectomy for cancer is significantly affected by complications and the cumulative effect of multiple complications. Interestingly, multiple minor complications had a worse effect on survival than major complications. The absolute magnitude of effect is substantial: minimising all types of postoperative complications could have significant benefit to overall outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: There is limited evidence regarding the prognostic effects of pathologic lymph node (LN) regression after neoadjuvant chemotherapy for esophageal adenocarcinoma, and a definition of LN response is lacking. This study aimed to evaluate how LN regression influences survival after surgery for esophageal adenocarcinoma., Methods: Multicenter cohort study of patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgical resection at five high-volume centers in the United Kingdom. LNs retrieved at esophagectomy were examined for chemotherapy response and given a LN regression score (LNRS)-LNRS 1, complete response; 2, <10% residual tumor; 3, 10%-50% residual tumor; 4, >50% residual tumor; and 5, no response. Survival analysis was performed using Cox regression adjusting for confounders including primary tumor regression. The discriminatory ability of different LN response classifications to predict survival was evaluated using Akaike information criterion and Harrell C-index., Results: In total, 17,930 LNs from 763 patients were examined. LN response classified as complete LN response (LNRS 1 ≥1 LN, no residual tumor in any LN; n = 62, 8.1%), partial LN response (LNRS 1-3 ≥1 LN, residual tumor ≥1 LN; n = 155, 20.3%), poor/no LN response (LNRS 4-5; n = 303, 39.7%), or LN negative (no tumor/regression; n = 243, 31.8%) demonstrated superior discriminatory ability. Mortality was reduced in patients with complete LN response (hazard ratio [HR], 0.35; 95% CI, 0.22 to 0.56), partial LN response (HR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.57 to 0.93) or negative LNs (HR, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.25 to 0.42) compared with those with poor/no LN response. Primary tumor regression and LN regression were discordant in 165 patients (21.9%)., Conclusion: Pathologic LN regression after neoadjuvant chemotherapy was a strong prognostic factor and provides important information beyond pathologic TNM staging and primary tumor regression grading. LN regression should be included as standard in the pathologic reporting of esophagectomy specimens.

Evidence for the best approach to follow-up patients after esophagectomy for cancer is scant and conflicting, and has led to a wide variety in practice. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether our annual routine computed tomography (a CT) scan program changes outcomes. A retrospective review of 169 patients who underwent esophagectomy for cancer in our unit between 2001 and 2010 was performed. a CT scan was part of follow-up in all patients to 5 years. Minimum follow-up was 37 months. The primary outcome measure was survival. Recurrence was detected in 61 cases (36%). a CT scan diagnosed recurrence in only a minority of cases (17 cases, 28%). In the majority of patients, clinical evidence prompted an unplanned CT scan ( uCT; 44 cases, 72%). There was no difference in unadjusted survival between the two groups (hazard ratio = 0.61, 95% confidence interval 0.34-1.08, P = 0.090), nor was one more likely to receive secondary oncological treatment ( aCT 41% vs. uCT 44%, P = 1.000). When we adjusted survival patterns for confounding covariates, the uCT cohort showed a protective effect (hazard ratio = 0.54, 95% confidence interval 0.28-0.98, P = 0.042). These data suggest that a CT scans do not influence management or survival after esophagectomy. A consensus follow-up protocol for patients treated for esophageal cancer remains to be established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background In the UK, oesophagectomy is the current recommendation for patients with persistent high-grade dysplasia in Barrett's oesophagus. Radiofrequency ablation is an alternative new technology with promising early trial results. Aim To undertake a cost-utility analysis comparing these two strategies. Methods We constructed a Markov model to simulate the natural history of a cohort of patients with high-grade dysplasia in Barrett's oesophagus undergoing one of two treatment options: (i) oesophagectomy or (ii) radiofrequency ablation followed by endoscopic surveillance with oesophagectomy for high-grade dysplasia recurrence or persistence. Results In the base case analysis, radiofrequency ablation dominated as it generated 0.4 extra quality of life years at a cost saving of £1902. For oesophagectomy to be the most cost-effective option, it required a radiofrequency ablation treatment failure rate (high-grade dysplasia persistence or progression to cancer) of >44%, or an annual risk of high-grade dysplasia recurrence or progression to cancer in the ablated oesophagus of >15% per annum. There was an 85% probability that radiofrequency ablation remained cost-effective at the NICE willingness to pay threshold range of £20 000-30 000. Conclusion Radiofrequency ablation is likely to be a cost-effective option for high-grade dysplasia in Barrett's oesophagus in the UK. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the contemporary prevalence, outcome, and survival after esophagogastric anastomotic leakage (EGAL) following esophagectomy by a regional upper gastrointestinal cancer network and to investigate etiological factors. Two hundred forty consecutive patients underwent esophagectomy over a 10-year period (median age 61 [31–79] years, 147 transthoracic and 93 transhiatal esophagectomy, 105 neoadjuvant chemotherapy, 49 chemoradiotherapy). The primary outcome measures were the development of EGAL and survival. Twenty patients developed EGAL (8.3%, 15 managed conservatively, 5 reoperation). Overall operative mortality was 2% (5 patients in total, 1 after EGAL). Median, 1 and 2-year survival was 22 months, 73% and 50%, in patients after EGAL, compared with 31 months, 80% and 56%, in patients who did not suffer EGAL ( P= 0.314). On multivariate analysis, low body mass indices (hazard ratio [HR] 0.29, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.11–0.79, P= 0.016), individual surgeon (HR 1.21, 95% CI 1.02–1.43, P= 0.02), and neoadjuvant chemotherapy (HR 3.28, 95% CI 1.16–9.22, P= 0.024) were significantly associated with the development of EGAL. EGAL following esophagectomy remained common, but associated mortality was less common than reported in earlier Western series and long-term survival was unaffected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following surgery for esophageal cancer, patients can experience complex physical, social, and emotional changes. Investigation of these challenges, particularly from the perspective of the patient and his or her carer, has been limited. The current study explored the emotional and cognitive experiences of esophageal cancer survivors and those of their carers, using focus groups conducted with members of a patient support group. Analysis of the patients' data yielded three themes: coping with a death sentence, adjusting to and accepting an altered self, and the unique benefits of peer support. Analysis of the carers' data also yielded three themes: the carer as buffer, representations of recovery and recurrence, and normalizing experiences through peer support. Esophageal cancer patients and their carers require holistic support in their efforts to adjust to the social, emotional, and physical consequences of esophagectomy. Peers could be an effective channel for the support of patients and carers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aim to compare the outcomes of patients undergoing R0 esophagectomy by a multidisciplinary team (MDT) with outcomes after surgery alone performed by surgeons working independently in a UK cancer unit. An historical control group of 77 consecutive patients diagnosed with esophageal cancer and undergoing surgery with curative intent by six general surgeons between 1991 and 1997 (54 R0 esophagectomies) were compared with a group of 67 consecutive patients managed by the MDT between 1998 and 2003 (53 R0 esophagectomies, 26 patients received multimodal therapy). The proportion of patients undergoing open and closed laparotomy and thoracotomy decreased from 21% and 5%, respectively, in control patients, to 13% and 0% in MDT patients (χ2 = 11.90, DF = 1, P = 0.001; χ2 = 5.45, DF = 1, P = 0.02 respectively). MDT patients had lower operative mortality (5.7% vs. 26%; χ2 = 8.22, DF = 1, P = 0.004) than control patients, and were more likely to survive 5 years (52% vs. 10%, χ2 = 15.05, P = 0.0001). In a multivariate analysis, MDT management (HR = 0.337, 95% CI = 0.201–0.564, P < 0.001), lymph node metastases (HR = 1.728, 95% CI = 1.070–2.792, P = 0.025), and American Society of Anesthesiologists grade (HR = 2.207, 95% CI = 1.412–3.450, P = 0.001) were independently associated with duration of survival. Multidisciplinary team management and surgical subspecialization improved outcomes after surgery significantly for patients diagnosed with esophageal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Over 1500 patients with oesophageal cancer undergo a resection in the UK each year. At surgery, patients commonly have a nasogastric tube (NGT) placed and may undergo a pyloric intervention. There is conflicting evidence on the use of both NGTs and pyloric interventions during oesophageal resections. We performed a national survey of oesophageal centres and assessed practice variation., Material and Methods: An electronic survey was distributed to all resection centres in England, Wales and Scotland. Variations in practice regarding NGTs and pyloric intervention were assessed, and compared to nationally reported centre volumes and length-of-stay data., Results: Most centres (31/39, 79%) responded to the survey. All centres reported routine NGT use. The majority of centres (19/31, 61%) did not perform pyloric interventions. When used, surgical pyloroplasty was the most frequent strategy (8/31, 26%). Routine post-operative radiological assessment was utilised in 9/31 (29%) of centres. Criteria for NGT removal and dietary progression was highly variable, with every centre reporting different protocols. There were no significant differences in practice between high and low volume centres. There were also no trends seen when comparing centres above vs at-or-below the median length-of-stay. The majority (68%) of centres were willing to take part in a trial assessing NGT use and pyloric interventions., Conclusions: Pyloric intervention use varies widely, with no clear link to outcomes. NGT use remains standard practice despite evidence for safe omission. Surgeons require and recognise the need for a trial to assess requirement for NGTs and pyloric intervention after oesophageal resection., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors whose names are listed immediately below certify that they have no affiliations with or involvement in any organization or entity with any financial interest (such as honoraria; educational grants; participation in speakers’ bureaus; membership, employment, consultancies, stock ownership, or other equity interest; and expert testimony or patent-licensing arrangements), or non-financial interest (such as personal or professional relationships, affiliations, knowledge or beliefs) in the subject matter or materials discussed in this manuscript., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd, BASO ~ The Association for Cancer Surgery, and the European Society of Surgical Oncology. All rights reserved.)

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate long-term HRQOL and symptom evolution in disease free patients up to 20 years after esophagectomy., Background: Esophagectomy has been associated with decreased HRQOL and persistent gastrointestinal symptoms., Methods: The study cohort was identified from 2 high volume centers for the management of esophageal cancer. Patients completed HRQOL and symptom questionnaires, including: Digestive Symptom Questionnaire, EORTC QLQ-C30, EORTC QLQ-OG25 Euro QoL 5D, and SF36. Patients were assessed in 3 cohorts: <1 year; 1-5 years, and; >5 years after surgery., Results: In total 171 of 222 patients who underwent esophagectomy between 1991 and 2017 who met inclusion criteria and were contactable, responded to the questionnaires, corresponding to a response rate of 77%. Median age was 66.2 years, and median time from operation to survey was 5.6 years (range 0.3-23.1). Early satiety was the most commonly reported symptom in all patients irrespective of timeframe (87.4%; range 82%-92%). Dysphagia was seen to decrease over time (58% at <2 years; 28% at 2-5 years; 20% at >5 years; P = 0.013). Weight loss scores demonstrated nonstatistical improvement over time. All other symptom scores including heartburn, regurgitation, respiratory symptoms, and pain scores remained constant over time. Average HRQOL did not improve from levels 1 year after surgery compared to patients up to 23 years after esophagectomy., Conclusion: With the exception of dysphagia, which improved over time, esophagectomy was associated with decreased HRQOL and lasting gastrointestinal symptoms up to 20 years after surgery. Pertinently however long-term survivors after oesophagectomy demonstrated comparable to improved HRQOL compared to the general population. The impact of esophagectomy on gastrointestinal symptoms and long-term HRQOL should be considered when counseling and caring for patients undergoing esophagectomy., Competing Interests: The author reports no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2020 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Narrates the experience of the author after esophagectomy for esophageal cancer in Great Britain. Inconvenience in the recovery from esophagectomy; Involvement of patients and carers in the treatment plan; Effects of surgical expertise on the quality of life.

Esophagectomy is a mainstay in curative treatment for esophageal cancer; however, the reported techniques and outcomes can vary greatly. Thirty-day mortality of patients with an intact anastomosis is 2–3% as compared to 17–35% in patients who have an anastomotic leak. The subsequent management of leaks postesophagectomy has great global variability with little consensus on a gold standard of practice. The aim of this multicentre prospective audit is to analyze current techniques of esophagogastric anastomosis to determine the effect on the anastomotic leak rate. Leak rates and leak management will be assessed to determine their impact on patient outcomes. A 12-month international multicentre prospective audit started in April 2018 and is coordinated by a team from the West Midlands Research Collaborative. This will include patients undergoing esophagectomy over 9 months and encompassing a 90-day follow-up period. A pilot data collection period occurred at four UK centers in 2017 to trial the data collection form. The audit standards will include anastomotic leak and the conduit necrosis rate should be less than 13% and major postoperative morbidity (Clavien–Dindo Grade III or more) should be less than 35%. The 30-day mortality rate should be less than 5% and the 90-day mortality rate should be less than 8%. This will be a trainee-led international audit of esophagectomy practice. Key support will be given by consultant colleagues and anesthetists. Individualized unit data will be distributed to the respective contributing sites. An overall anonymized report will be made available to contributing units. Results of the audit will be published in peer-reviewed journals with all collaborators fully acknowledged. The key information and results from the audit will be disseminated at relevant scientific meetings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Esophagectomy is the mainstay of treatment for patients with resectable esophageal cancer, and chemotherapy and chemoradiation have become essential adjuncts to improve survival. Controversy remains regarding the optimal perioperative therapy., Methods: This review focuses on three landmark, randomized, controlled trials that have greatly influenced esophageal cancer management and established chemotherapy and chemoradiotherapy as standard of care: Medical Research Council Adjuvant Gastric Infusional Chemotherapy Trial (MAGIC); The United Kingdom Medical Research Council Esophageal Cancer Trial (OEO2); and Chemoradiotherapy for Oesophageal Cancer Followed by Surgery Study (CROSS)., Results: The findings from these landmark studies are reviewed and summarized., Conclusion: Chemotherapy regimens are heterogeneous but centered around platinum-based therapy and should be included in the management for all appropriate patients. Ongoing and future studies will further delineate the roles of various chemo- and chemoradiotherapy regimens and also will investigate the promising area of immunotherapy in the treatment of esophageal cancer.

Background: A high Mandard score implies a non-response to chemotherapy in oesophageal adenocarcinoma. However, some patients exhibit tumour volume reduction and a nodal response despite a high score. This study examines survival and recurrence patterns in these patients., Methods: Clinicopathological factors were analysed using multivariable Cox regression assessing time to death and recurrence. Computed tomography-estimated tumour volume change was examined in a subgroup of consecutive patients., Results: Five hundred and fifty-five patients were included. Median survival was 55 months (Mandard 1-3) and 21 months (Mandard 4 and 5). In the Mandard 4 and 5 group (332 patients), comparison between complete nodal responders and persistent nodal disease showed improved survival (90 vs 18 months), recurrence rates (locoregional 14.75 vs 28.74%, systemic 24.59 vs 48.42%) and circumferential resection margin positivity (22.95 vs 68.11%). Complete nodal response independently predicted improved survival (hazard ratio 0.34 (0.16-0.74). Post-chemotherapy tumour volume reduction was greater in patients with a complete nodal response (-16.3 vs -7.7 cm 3 , p = 0.033) with no significant difference between Mandard groups., Conclusion: Patients with a complete nodal response to chemotherapy have significantly improved outcomes despite a poor Mandard score. High Mandard score does not correspond with a non-response to chemotherapy in all cases and patients with nodal downstaging may still benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy.

Background Totally minimally invasive oesophagectomy although challenging to perform has garnered popularity in the surgical treatment of oesophageal cancer. Advanced laparoscopic surgical skills are needed with the construction of the intra-thoracic anastomosis in the case of a 2-stage procedure being the rate-limiting step. We aim to report our initial experience and short-term outcomes of totally minimally invasive 3-stage and 2-stage oesophagectomies for cancer. Methods From January 2016 when the minimally invasive oesophagectomy programme was implemented in our Unit, to December 2017, 65 consecutive cases underwent either a 2-stage or a 3-stage oesophagectomy for cancer. In all cases a radical 2-field lymph node dissection was performed. All were performed in a prone position and in the 3-stage oesophagectomies, superior mediastinal lympadenectomy was additionally performed. In the 2-stage cases an end-to-side esophago-gastric anastomosis was constructed in two layers with barbed knotless suture (V-LocTM). Results Male: female was 4:1 with a mean age of 66.44 years (IQR, 43–82). n = 53 were 2-stage and 12 were 3-stage oesophagectomies. Thirty five (53.8%) had neoadjuvant chemotherapy and 30(46.2%) went straight to surgery. There were no open conversions. No feeding jejunostomies were placed routinely. Complete resection (R0) rate was 61.54% (40/65) with a mean lymph node harvest of 28 (IQR, 11–68). Five (7.6%) anastomotic leaks were diagnosed (4 in 2-stage and 1 in 3-stage oesophagectomies), with 1(1.5%) of them (in the 2-stage group) being subclinical requiring no intervention. Furthermore, 1(1.5%) chyle leak and 1(1.5%) gastric staple line leak were also observed. Pulmonary complications were reported in 13.8% of cases and cardiac complications arose in 1.5%. Seven (10.8%) anastomotic strictures were also noted that were treated with endoscopic balloon dilatation. Mean hospital stay was 13 days and 30-day mortality rate was 4.62%. Conclusion Implementation of a minimally invasive oesophagectomy program in our high-volume tertiary centre is yielding good initial results. Vast previous experience in the field is of paramount importance. Hand-sewn intrathoracic anastomosis during 2-stage procedures is feasible and with repetitively good outcomes. Disclosure All authors have declared no conflicts of interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Statins inhibit proliferative signalling in oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC) and their use is associated with better survival in observational studies. The present study was undertaken to examine the feasibility of assessing adjuvant statin therapy in patients with operable OAC in a phase III RCT., Methods: For this multicentre, double-blind, parallel-group, randomized, placebo-controlled feasibility trial, adults with OAC (including Siewert I-II lesions) who had undergone oesophagectomy were centrally allocated (1 : 1) to simvastatin 40 mg or matching placebo by block randomization, stratified by centre. Participants, clinicians and investigators were blinded to treatment allocation. Patients received treatment for up to 1 year. Feasibility outcomes were recruitment, retention, drug absorption, adherence, safety, quality of life, generalizability and survival., Results: A total of 120 patients were assessed for eligibility at four centres, of whom 32 (26·7 per cent) were randomized, 16 in each group. Seven patients withdrew. Participants allocated to simvastatin had lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels by 3 months (adjusted mean difference -0·83 (95 per cent c.i. -1·4 to -0·22) mmol/l; P = 0·009). Median adherence to medication was greater than 90 per cent between 3 and 12 months' follow-up. Adverse events were similar between the groups. Quality-of-life data were complete for 98·3 per cent of questionnaire items. Cardiovascular disease, diabetes and aspirin use were more prevalent in the non-randomized group, whereas tumour site, stage and grade were similar between groups. Survival estimates were imprecise., Conclusion: This RCT supports the conduct and informs the design considerations for a future phase III trial of adjuvant statin therapy in patients with OAC. Registration number: ISRCTN98060456 (www.isrctn/com)., (© 2019 The Authors. BJS Open published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of BJS Society Ltd.)

Background Oesophagectomy is the mainstay of curative treatment for oesophageal cancer; however, surgery is followed by a reduction in health-related quality of life (HRQL). Whether minimally invasive approaches improve HRQL is unknown and limited comparative evidence available. The ROMIO study is a pragmatic multi-centre randomised controlled trial (RCT) aiming to establish the clinical and cost effectiveness of laparoscopically-assisted (LAO) versus open oesophagectomy (OO) in patients with oesophageal cancer in terms of HRQL, complications and survival. It includes an exploratory study of totally minimally invasive oesophagectomy (TMIO). Methods Adult participants referred for primary oesophagectomy or oesophagectomy following re-staging after neoadjuvant chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy for oesophageal or oesophago-gastric adenocarcinoma or squamous cell cancer are eligible. Consenting patients are randomised 1:1 to receive OO or LAO except in two centres where participants are randomised to LAO, OO or TMIO (1:1:1). The primary outcome is the EORTC QLQ-C30 physical function scale, assessed at 3, 6 and 12 weeks after randomisation. Secondary outcomes include hospital stay, blinded assessment of pain, surgical complications, other aspects of HRQL and survival to 24 months. Quality assurance of surgery is assessed with, i) surgeon entry criteria based on provision of two operative videos, ii) 7 standard intra-operative photographs, and, iii) histopathological assessment of the specimen. A qualitative intervention is being used to train surgeons to recruit and communicate clinical equipoise. 406 patients are required to examine whether the minimum clinically important difference on the QLQ-C30 physical function scale is detected, allowing for 5% of patients allocated to LAO to undergo OO and a proportion to be inoperable or not followed up (90% power, 5% significance). This will also detect a clinically important reduction in length of stay. Results Seven UK centres involving 33 surgeons are recruiting. 288 patients have been screened, of which 206(73%) are eligible and 117(56%) eligible randomised. 21 surgeons have submitted at least two videos for assessment. Of the 102 patients operated on, 1058 photographs have been returned from 85 different patients. Follow up is currently at 79% for all time points. Conclusion This RCT will provide evidence to inform decision-making and informed consent for oesophagectomy. Disclosure All authors have declared no conflicts of interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Esophagectomy is associated with high complication rate and mortality. Numerous approaches have been introduced over the last two decades, with the ambition of reducing rate of complications, morbidity and mortality. Two-stage minimally invasive esophagectomies include hybrid (laparoscopic/thoracotomic) and fully minimally invasive and have recently gained popularity in the treatment of distal esophageal and gastro-esophageal junction cancer. We aim to compare the short-term outcomes between 2-stage hybrid and fully minimally invasive esophagectomy with intrathoracic hand-sewn anastomosis. Methods A retrospective analysis of a 4-year period prospectively collected data of 100 consecutive 2-stage minimally invasive esophagectomies was conducted. All operations were performed in a UK tertiary centre by a single surgical team between 2014 and 2018. All 3-stage and open esophagectomies were excluded from the study. A comparison of anastomotic leak rate, ITU length of stay, hospital length of stay, pulmonary complications, cardiac complications and 30 and 90-day mortality rates was made. Statistical analysis was performed using Graph-Prism 7.04. Results Seventy patients underwent hybrid and 30 underwent fully minimally invasive esophagectomy with intra-thoracic manual anastomosis. Chest infection and anastomotic leak rate were higher in the hybrid group (21.4% vs 16.8% and 10% vs 3.3%); however, cardiac complications were two times more common in fully minimally invasive compared to hybrid esophagectomies (3.3% vs 1.4%). Fully minimally invasive esophagectomies were associated with a shorter ITU stay as well as hospital length of stay compared to hybrid esophagectomies (5.5 vs 6.2 days, P  = 0.47 and 10.5 vs 15.6 days P  = 0.0018). Complete tumour resection (R0) rate was slightly higher in hybrid compared to fully minimally invasive esophagectomies (70.8% vs 64.3%). Thirty and 90-day mortality rate was 6.67% (1 cardiac and 1 respiratory arrest) in fully minimally invasive and 1.43% in hybrid esophagectomies. None of the mortality cases were related to surgical complications like anastomotic leak or conduit necrosis. Conclusion In our study 2-stage fully minimally invasive esophagectomy is associated with reduced post-operative complication rates compared to 2-stage hybrid oesophagectomy. Further larger studies are needed to assess the 30- and 90-day mortality risk associated with both procedures. Disclosure All authors have declared no conflicts of interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 69-year-old patient underwent simultaneous transhiatal esophagectomy for carcinoma of the esophagogastric junction and benign spindle cell gastric tumor and coronary artery bypass grafting without cardiopulmonary bypass. A standard technique of transhiatal esophagectomy was used. The long saphenous vein was grafted to the left anterior descending artery and to the distal circumflex artery. The total theatre time was 6.5 h and the total ischemic time was 19 min. The patient made a good recovery and was discharged on day 18. He is enjoying an active lifestyle 6 months post-operatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term survival after esophagectomy is improving, and hence, quality of life (QOL) of these patients has become a priority. There has been extensive debate regarding the optimal site of surgical anastomosis (cervical or intrathoracic). We aimed to evaluate the impact of anastomotic site on long-term QOL postesophagectomy. Quality of life questionnaires (European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer [EORTC] C-30 and OG-25) were sent to patients surviving over 3 years following esophagectomy. The data were analyzed by site of esophagogastric anastomosis: intrathoracic or cervical. EORTC C-30 data were compared against the reference population data. Of the patients, 62 responded (82%) with a median time postsurgery of 6.1 years (range 3-12 years). Patient demographics were comparable. There was no significant difference between cervical or intrathoracic anastomosis groups for functional or symptom scores, focusing on dysphagia (cervical = 8.8 vs. intrathoracic = 17.6, P = 0.24), odynophagia (cervical = 13.4 vs. intrathoracic = 16.1, P = 0.68) and swallowing problems (cervical = 8.1 vs. intrathoracic = 13.4, P = 0.32). There was no difference in overall health score between groups (cervical = 70.5 vs. intrathoracic = 71.6, P = 0.46). Overall general health score was comparable with the reference population (esophagectomy group P = 70.9 ± 22.1 vs. reference population = 71.2 ± 22.4, P = 0.93). There is no difference in long-term QOL after esophagectomy between patients with a cervical or intrathoracic anastomosis. Scores compare favorably with EORTC reference data. Survival after esophagectomy is associated with recovery of QOL in the long term, regardless of site of anastomosis and despite worse gastrointestinal-related symptoms., (© 2014 International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.)

Discusses the abstract of the study "A prospective study of quality of life following multimodal treatment and oesphagectomy versus oesphagectomy alone," presented at the annual scientific meeting of the Association of Upper Gastrointestinal Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland on September 25-26, 2003