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Objective: This study aimed to explore the short-term clinical efficacy of modified Kamikawa anastomosis and double tract anastomosis after laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy. Methods: A retrospective analysis was carried out by collecting the clinical and pathological data of 42 patients who underwent laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy after admission in our centre from May 2020 to October 2022. Among the 42 enrolled patients, 22 underwent modified Kamikawa anastomosis (modified Kamikawa group), and the other 20 underwent double tract anastomosis (double tract group). Outcome measures included intraoperative condition, postoperative recovery, postoperative quality of life, postoperative nutritional status and gastroesophageal reflux. The patients were followed up using outpatient examination and telephone interviews to identify their nutritional status, reflux esophagitis and anastomotic status. Results: (1) Intraoperative condition: Compared with the double tract group, the modified Kamikawa group had significantly prolonged time for operation and digestive tract reconstruction. However, no statistically significant difference in intraoperative blood loss was found between the two groups. (2) Postoperative recovery: Compared with the double tract group, the modified Kamikawa group had a significantly shorter time for the first postoperative intake of fluids, drainage tube placement and postoperative hospital stay. No statistically significant difference in the time to first postoperative anal exhaust and postoperative complications was found between the two groups. (3) Postoperative quality of life: Compared with the double tract group, the modified Kamikawa group showed better quality of life at 12 months after surgery. (4) Postoperative nutritional status and gastroesophageal reflux: No statistically significant difference in hemoglobin, total serum albumin, albumin, body mass index, MUST score, PG-SGA score, grading of reflux esophagitis using the Los Angeles classification system and GERD score was found between the two groups at 6 and 12 months after surgery. All patients did not experience anastomotic stenosis and tumour recurrence or metastasis. Conclusions: Modified Kamikawa anastomosis is a safe and feasible treatment in laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy, which can ensure good postoperative antireflux effect and nutritional status. It has the advantage of better postoperative recorvery and quality of life compared with double tract anastomosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In recent years, clinicians have focused on the importance of preventing hypoglycemia. We evaluated the impact of different reconstruction procedures after proximal gastrectomy on glycemic variability in non-diabetic patients with gastric cancer. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted between April 2020 and March 2023. Flash continuous glucose-monitoring, a novel method for assessing glycemic control, was used to evaluate the glycemic profiles after gastrectomy. A flash continuous glucose-monitoring sensor was placed subcutaneously at the time of discharge, and glucose trends were evaluated for 2 weeks. Results: The anastomotic methods for proximal gastrectomy were esophagogastrostomy in 10 patients and double-tract reconstruction in 10 patients. The time below this range (glucose levels < 70 mg/dL) was significantly higher in the double-tract reconstruction group than in the esophagogastrostomy group (p = 0.049). A higher nocturnal time below this range was significantly correlated with an older age and double-tract reconstruction (p = 0.025 and p = 0.025, respectively). Conclusion: These findings provide new insights into reconstruction methods after proximal gastrectomy by assessing postoperative hypoglycemia in non-diabetic patients with gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As the opportunities for proximal gastrectomy (PG) for early gastric cancer in the upper third stomach have been increasing, the safety and feasibility of PG have been a great concern in recent years. This study aimed to compare the short-term and long-term outcomes between patients who underwent esophagogastrostomy (EG) and those who underwent double-tract reconstruction (DTR) after PG. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 34 patients who underwent EG and 39 who underwent DTR at our hospital between 2011 and 2022. We compared the procedure data and postoperative complications including anastomotic complications within 1 year after surgery as short-term outcomes and the rates of change in nutritional status, skeletal muscle mass, and 3-year survival as long-term outcomes. Results: Although operation time of the DTR group was significantly longer than that of the EG group, there were no significant differences in postoperative complications between 2 groups. Regarding the endoscopic findings, the incidence of anastomotic stenosis and reflux esophagitis was significantly higher in the EG group than in the DTR group (26.5% vs 0%, p < 0.001; 15.2% vs 0%, p = 0.020). In long-term outcomes, there were no significant differences in body weight, BMI, laboratory data, and skeletal muscle mass index between 2 groups for 3 years. The 3-year overall survival rates of 2 groups were similar. Conclusion: DTR after PG could prevent the occurrence of anastomotic complications in comparison to EG. The long-term outcomes were similar between these 2 types of reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract To investigate the short-term clinical efficacy of laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy with modified Kamikawa anastomosis and laparoscopic total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y anastomosis. Retrospective cohort study was conducted. The clinicopathological data of 268 patients who underwent laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy for adenocarcinoma of esophagogastric junction and upper gastric adenocarcinoma from January 2016 to October 2022 were collected. Among 268 patients, 26 underwent laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy with modified Kamikawa anastomosis were assigned to Kamikawa group and 242 underwent laparoscopic total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y anastomosis were assigned to Roux-en-Y group. The sex, age, BMI, preoperative albumin, maximum tumor diameter, histological grade, and pathological stage of patients in the Kamikawa group and the Roux-en-Y group were subjected to 1:1 propensity score matching. After matching, 16 patients in Kamikawa group and Roux-en-Y group were respectively included in this study. Outcome measures: (1) Intraoperative condition. (2) Postoperative recovery. (3) Follow-up information. The patients' nutritional status, reflux esophagitis and anastomotic stoma were investigated by outpatient and telephone follow-up. Nutritional status assessment comprising body mass index and Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 score. (1) Intraoperative condition. All patients successfully underwent laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy and total gastrectomy. Compared with Roux-en-Y group, the digestive tract reconstruction time in Kamikawa group was longer 93.0(74.0–111.0)min vs. 39.7(35.1–46.2)min, t = -2.001, P = 0.055., and the difference was statistically significant (P 0.05). (2) Postoperative recovery. There was no statistically significant difference between Kamikawa group and Roux-en-Y group in first anal exhaust time, first postoperative liquid intake time, postoperative hospitalization time, and postoperative complications (P > 0.05). (3) Follow-up information. All patients were followed up. BMI and NRS 2002 scores in Kamikawa group were better than those in Roux-en-Y group at 6 and 12 months after surgery 22.9 ± 3.0 kg/m2 vs. 20.8 ± 2.2 kg/m2, t = 2.165, P = 0.038; 23.1 ± 3.0 kg/m2 vs. 20.3 ± 2.2 kg/m2, t = 3.022, P = 0.005 and 2 (1–2) vs. 2 (1–3), Z = -2.585, P = 0.010; 2 (1–2) vs. 2 (1–3), Z = -2.273, P = 0.023., the difference was statistically significant (P 0.05). Anastomotic stenosis was not found in all patients by postoperative upper gastrointestinal angiography. Laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy with modified Kamikawa anastomosis is safe and feasible for the treatment of esophagogastric junction and upper gastric adenocarcinoma, and can achieve good anti-reflux effect. Besides, compared with traditional laparoscopic total gastrectomy, its postoperative nutritional status is better.

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of double-tract reconstruction on short-term clinical outcome, quality of life and nutritional status of patients after proximal gastrectomy by comparing with esophagogastrostomy and total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction. Methods The clinical data of patients who underwent double tract reconstruction (DTR), esophagogastrostomy (EG), total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction (TG-RY) were retrospectively collected from May 2020 to May 2022. The clinical characteristics, short-term surgical outcomes, postoperative quality of life and nutritional status were compared among the three groups. Results Compared with the DTR group, the operation time in the TG group was significantly shorter (200(180,240) minutes vs. 230(210,255) minutes, p

Abstract Background Double‐flap technique (DFT) is a reconstruction procedure after proximal gastrectomy (PG). We previously reported a multi‐center, retrospective study in which the incidence of reflux esophagitis (RE) (Los Angeles Classification ≥Grade B [LA‐B]) 1 year after surgery was 6.0%. There have been many reports, but all of them were retrospective. Thus, a multi‐center, prospective study was conducted. Methods Laparoscopic PG + DFT was performed for cT1N0 upper gastric cancer patients. The primary endpoint was the incidence of RE (≥LA‐B) 1 year after surgery. The planned sample size was 40, based on an estimated incidence of 6.0% and an upper threshold of 20%. Results Forty patients were recruited, and 39, excluding one with conversion to total gastrectomy, received protocol treatment. Anastomotic leakage (Clavien–Dindo ≥Grade III) was observed in one patient (2.6%). In 38 patients, excluding one case of postoperative mortality, RE (≥LA‐B) was observed in two patients (5.3%) 1 year after surgery, and the upper limit of the 95% confidence interval was 17.3%, lower than the 20% threshold. Anastomotic stricture requiring dilatation was observed in two patients (5.3%). One year after surgery, body weight change was 88.9 ± 7.0%, and PNI

To investigate the short-term clinical efficacy of laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy with modified Kamikawa anastomosis and laparoscopic total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y anastomosis. Retrospective cohort study was conducted. The clinicopathological data of 268 patients who underwent laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy for adenocarcinoma of esophagogastric junction and upper gastric adenocarcinoma from January 2016 to October 2022 were collected. Among 268 patients, 26 underwent laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy with modified Kamikawa anastomosis were assigned to Kamikawa group and 242 underwent laparoscopic total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y anastomosis were assigned to Roux-en-Y group. The sex, age, BMI, preoperative albumin, maximum tumor diameter, histological grade, and pathological stage of patients in the Kamikawa group and the Roux-en-Y group were subjected to 1:1 propensity score matching. After matching, 16 patients in Kamikawa group and Roux-en-Y group were respectively included in this study. Outcome measures: (1) Intraoperative condition. (2) Postoperative recovery. (3) Follow-up information. The patients' nutritional status, reflux esophagitis and anastomotic stoma were investigated by outpatient and telephone follow-up. Nutritional status assessment comprising body mass index and Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 score. (1) Intraoperative condition. All patients successfully underwent laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy and total gastrectomy. Compared with Roux-en-Y group, the digestive tract reconstruction time in Kamikawa group was longer 93.0(74.0–111.0)min vs. 39.7(35.1–46.2)min, t = -2.001, P = 0.055., and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in total operation time and intraoperative blood loss (P > 0.05). (2) Postoperative recovery. There was no statistically significant difference between Kamikawa group and Roux-en-Y group in first anal exhaust time, first postoperative liquid intake time, postoperative hospitalization time, and postoperative complications (P > 0.05). (3) Follow-up information. All patients were followed up. BMI and NRS 2002 scores in Kamikawa group were better than those in Roux-en-Y group at 6 and 12 months after surgery 22.9 ± 3.0 kg/m2 vs. 20.8 ± 2.2 kg/m2, t = 2.165, P = 0.038; 23.1 ± 3.0 kg/m2 vs. 20.3 ± 2.2 kg/m2, t = 3.022, P = 0.005 and 2 (1–2) vs. 2 (1–3), Z = -2.585, P = 0.010; 2 (1–2) vs. 2 (1–3), Z = -2.273, P = 0.023., the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in GERD scale score and occurrence of ≥ Grade B reflux esophagitis at 6 and 12 months after surgery between Kamikawa group and Roux-en-Y group (P > 0.05). Anastomotic stenosis was not found in all patients by postoperative upper gastrointestinal angiography. Laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy with modified Kamikawa anastomosis is safe and feasible for the treatment of esophagogastric junction and upper gastric adenocarcinoma, and can achieve good anti-reflux effect. Besides, compared with traditional laparoscopic total gastrectomy, its postoperative nutritional status is better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of double-tract reconstruction on short-term clinical outcome, quality of life and nutritional status of patients after proximal gastrectomy by comparing with esophagogastrostomy and total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction. Methods: The clinical data of patients who underwent double tract reconstruction (DTR), esophagogastrostomy (EG), total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction (TG-RY) were retrospectively collected from May 2020 to May 2022. The clinical characteristics, short-term surgical outcomes, postoperative quality of life and nutritional status were compared among the three groups. Results: Compared with the DTR group, the operation time in the TG group was significantly shorter (200(180,240) minutes vs. 230(210,255) minutes, p < 0.01), and more lymph nodes were removed (28(22, 25) vs. 22(19.31), p < 0.01), there were no significant differences in intraoperative blood loss, first flatus time, postoperative hospital stay and postoperative complication rate among the three groups. Postoperative digestive tract angiography was completed in 36 patients in the DTR group, of which 21 (58.3%) showed double-tract type of food passing. The incidence of postoperative reflux symptoms was 9.2% in the DTR group, 43.8% in the EG group and 23.2% in the TG group, repectively (P < 0.01). EORTCQLQ-STO22 questionnaire survey showed that compared with EG group, DTR group had fewer reflux symptoms (P < 0.05), fewer anxiety symptoms (P < 0.05) and more swallowing symptoms (P < 0.05). Compared with TG group, DTR group had fewer reflux symptoms (P < 0.05). There were no other significant differences between the two groups. Compared with TG group and EG group, DTR can better maintain postoperative BMI, and there is no statistical difference between the three groups in terms of hemoglobin and albumin. Conclusions: Although partial double-tract reconstruction approach does not always ensure food to enter the distal jejunum along the two pathways as expected, it still shows satisfactory anti-reflux effect. Moreover, it might improve patients' quality of life and maintain better nutritional status comparing with gastroesophageal anastomosis and total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Double‐flap technique (DFT) is a reconstruction procedure after proximal gastrectomy (PG). We previously reported a multi‐center, retrospective study in which the incidence of reflux esophagitis (RE) (Los Angeles Classification ≥Grade B [LA‐B]) 1 year after surgery was 6.0%. There have been many reports, but all of them were retrospective. Thus, a multi‐center, prospective study was conducted. Methods: Laparoscopic PG + DFT was performed for cT1N0 upper gastric cancer patients. The primary endpoint was the incidence of RE (≥LA‐B) 1 year after surgery. The planned sample size was 40, based on an estimated incidence of 6.0% and an upper threshold of 20%. Results: Forty patients were recruited, and 39, excluding one with conversion to total gastrectomy, received protocol treatment. Anastomotic leakage (Clavien–Dindo ≥Grade III) was observed in one patient (2.6%). In 38 patients, excluding one case of postoperative mortality, RE (≥LA‐B) was observed in two patients (5.3%) 1 year after surgery, and the upper limit of the 95% confidence interval was 17.3%, lower than the 20% threshold. Anastomotic stricture requiring dilatation was observed in two patients (5.3%). One year after surgery, body weight change was 88.9 ± 7.0%, and PNI <40 and CONUT ≥5, indicating malnutrition, were observed in only one patient (2.6%) each. In the quality of life survey using the PGSAS‐45 questionnaire, the esophageal reflux subscale score was 1.4 ± 0.6, significantly better than the public data (2.0 ± 1.0; p = 0.001). Conclusion: Laparoscopic DFT showed anti‐reflux efficacy. Taken together with the acceptable incidence of anastomotic stricture, DFT can be an option for reconstruction procedure after PG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The oncological relevance of proximal gastrectomy in advanced gastric cancer remains unclear. We aimed to examine the frequency of lymph node metastasis in advanced gastric cancer to determine the oncological validity of proximal gastrectomy selection. Materials and methods: This study included consecutive 71 patients with locally advanced gastric cancer in the upper third of the stomach who underwent total gastrectomy at our institution between 2001 and 2017. Lymph node metastasis and its therapeutic value index were examined to identify candidates for proximal gastrectomy. Metastatic and 3-year overall survival rates of numbers 3a and 3b lymph nodes were examined from 2010 to 2019. Results: The metastatic rate and therapeutic value index of numbers 4d, 5, 6, and 12a lymph nodes were zero or low. The number 3 lymph node had a metastatic rate and therapeutic value index of 36.6 % and 31.1, respectively. The metastatic and 3-year overall survival rates of the number 3a lymph node were 32.7 % and 89 %, respectively, whereas those of the number 3b lymph node were 3.8 % and 100 %, respectively. All patients with positive metastasis to the number 3b lymph node received adjuvant chemotherapy. Histopathological findings of positive metastasis to the number 3b lymph node were located in the lesser curvature, and the tumor diameter exceeded 40 mm. Conclusion: For advanced gastric cancer of the upper third of the stomach, the indications of localization to the lesser curvature and a tumor diameter of >40 mm should be considered cautiously.

Objective To compare the advantages and disadvantages of two different resection margins by observing the clinical efficacy of laparoscopic total gastrectomy (TG) and proximal gastrectomy(PG) for radical resection of adenocarcinoma of esophagogastric junction (AEJ). Methods A total of 90 patients with AEJ who were treated by Huai ‘an No.1 People ‘s Hospital from January 2020 to December 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were divided into PG group ( n=43) and TG group ( n=47) according to the surgical resection range. The general data, surgery related statistical indicators of the two groups were compared. Results The TG group had a longer operation time than the PG group, with significantly more intraoperative blood loss and a greater number of intraoperatively cleared lymph nodes than the PG group (P＜0.05). There was no significant difference in terms of drainage volume of the abdominal drainage tubes in the 3day postoperative period, postoperative period to the drainage removal, the length of hospitalization, and postoperative complications between two groups (P>0.05). Postoperative levels of hemoglobin, albumin, and prealbumin were significant lower in TG group compared with those in PG group (P

Abstract Purpose This study assesses the metastasis rate of the key distal lymph nodes (KDLN) that are not routinely dissected in proximal gastrectomy, aiming to explore the oncological safety of proximal gastrectomy for upper gastric cancer who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Methods We analyzed a cohort of 150 patients with proximal locally advanced gastric cancer (cT3/4 before chemotherapy) from two high-volume cancer centers in China who received preoperative neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) and total gastrectomy with lymph node dissection. Metastasis rate of the KDLN (No.5/6/12a) and the risk factors were analyzed. Results Key distal lymph node metastasis was detected in 10% (15/150) of patients, with a metastasis rate of 6% (9/150) in No. 5 lymph nodes, 6.7% (10/150) in No. 6 lymph nodes, and 2.7% (2/75) in No. 12a lymph nodes. The therapeutic value index of KDLN as one entity is 5.8. Tumor length showed no correlation with KDLN metastasis, while tumor regression grade (TRG) emerged as an independent risk factor (OR: 1.47; p-value: 0.04). Of those with TRG3 (no response to NAC), 80% (12/15) was found with KDLN metastasis. Conclusion For cT3/4 proximal locally advanced gastric cancer patients, the risk of KDLN metastasis remains notably high even after NAC. Therefore, proximal gastrectomy is not recommended; instead, total gastrectomy with thorough distal lymphadenectomy is the preferred surgical approach.

Background: There is no optimal reconstruction method after proximal gastrectomy. The valvuloplastic esophagogastrostomy can reduce postoperative reflux esophagitis, but it is technically complex with a long operation time. The gastric tube anastomosis is technically simple, but the incidences of reflux esophagitis and anastomotic stricture are higher. Methods: We have devised a modified valvuloplastic esophagogastrostomy after laparoscopy-assisted proximal gastrectomy (LAPG), the arch-bridge anastomosis. After reviewing our prospectively maintained gastric cancer database, 43 patients who underwent LAPG from November 2021 to April 2023 were included in this cohort study, with 25 patients received the arch-bridge anastomosis and 18 patients received gastric tube anastomosis. The short-term outcomes were compared between the two groups to evaluate the efficacy of the arch-bridge anastomosis. Reporting was consistent with the STROCSS 2021 guideline. Results: The median operation time was 180 min in the arch-bridge group, significantly shorter than the gastric tube group (p = 0.003). In the arch-bridge group, none of the 25 patients experienced anastomotic leakage, while one patient (4%) experienced anastomotic stricture requiring endoscopic balloon dilation. The postoperative length of stay was shorter in the arch-bridge group (9 vs. 11, p = 0.034). None of the patients in the arch-bridge group experienced gastroesophageal reflux and used proton pump inhibitor (PPI), while four (22.2%) patients in the gastric tube group used PPI (p = 0.025). The incidence of reflux esophagitis (Los Angeles grade B or more severe) by endoscopy was lower in the arch-bridge group (0% vs. 25.0%). Conclusion: The arch-bridge anastomosis is a safe, time-saving, and feasible reconstruction method. It can reduce postoperative reflux and anastomotic stricture incidences in a selected cohort of patients undergoing laparoscopy-assisted proximal gastrectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Proximal gastrectomy (PG) has become an increasingly preferred procedure for treating early cancer in the upper third of the stomach. However, advantages of PG in postoperative quality of life (QOL) over total gastrectomy (TG) has not fully proven. Methods: We conducted a multi‐institutional prospective observational study (CCOG1602) of patients who undergo TG or PG for cStage I gastric cancer. We used the PGSAS‐37 and EORTC‐QLQ‐C30 to evaluate the changes in body weight and QOL over a 3‐year postoperative period. The primary endpoint was the weight loss rate 3 years after surgery. Results: We enrolled 109 patients from 18 institutions and selected 65 and 19 patients for inclusion in the TG and PG groups, respectively. Mean postoperative weight loss rates were 16.0% and 11.7% for the TG and PG groups, respectively (p = 0.056, Cohen's d 0.656) during postoperative year 1% and 15.0% and 10.8% for TG and PG (p = 0.068, Cohen's d 0.543), respectively, during postoperative year 3, indicating that the PG group achieved a better trend with a moderate effect size. According to the PGSAS‐37, the PG group experienced a better trend in the indigestion subscale (p < 0.001, Cohen's d −1.085) and total symptom score (p = 0.050, Cohen's d −0.59) during postoperative year 3 compared with the TG group. In contrast, the EORTC‐QLQ‐C30 detected no difference between the groups at any time point during 3‐year postoperative period. Conclusions: This prospective study demonstrates that PG tended to be more favorable compared with TG with respect to postoperative weight loss and QOL, particularly regarding indigestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study assesses the metastasis rate of the key distal lymph nodes (KDLN) that are not routinely dissected in proximal gastrectomy, aiming to explore the oncological safety of proximal gastrectomy for upper gastric cancer who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Methods: We analyzed a cohort of 150 patients with proximal locally advanced gastric cancer (cT3/4 before chemotherapy) from two high-volume cancer centers in China who received preoperative neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) and total gastrectomy with lymph node dissection. Metastasis rate of the KDLN (No.5/6/12a) and the risk factors were analyzed. Results: Key distal lymph node metastasis was detected in 10% (15/150) of patients, with a metastasis rate of 6% (9/150) in No. 5 lymph nodes, 6.7% (10/150) in No. 6 lymph nodes, and 2.7% (2/75) in No. 12a lymph nodes. The therapeutic value index of KDLN as one entity is 5.8. Tumor length showed no correlation with KDLN metastasis, while tumor regression grade (TRG) emerged as an independent risk factor (OR: 1.47; p-value: 0.04). Of those with TRG3 (no response to NAC), 80% (12/15) was found with KDLN metastasis. Conclusion: For cT3/4 proximal locally advanced gastric cancer patients, the risk of KDLN metastasis remains notably high even after NAC. Therefore, proximal gastrectomy is not recommended; instead, total gastrectomy with thorough distal lymphadenectomy is the preferred surgical approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to analyze and compare the short-term and long-term outcomes of proximal gastrectomy (PG) and total gastrectomy (TG) in patients with locally advanced proximal gastric cancer (GC) following neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT). Method: A multicenter retrospective cohort study and propensity score matching (PSM) were employed. The authors examined 367 patients with proximal GC who received NACT followed by PG (n =164) or TG (n=203) at two Chinese medical institutions between December 2009 and December 2022. Clinical and pathological parameters, postoperative complications, and 5-year overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were compared between the two groups. The dissection status and metastasis rate of each lymph node station were assessed. Results: After PSM, 80 patients were enrolled in both TG and PG group, and baseline characteristics were comparable between the groups (all P> 0.05). The TG group had a higher total number of lymph nodes retrieved (P<0.001) and longer operative time (P =0.007) compared to the PG group. The incidence of Clavien-Dindo grade II or higher postoperative complications was similar between the TG group (21.3%, 17/80) and the PG group (17.5%, 14/80) (P =0.689). The 5-year OS rates were 68.4 for the PG group and 66.0% for the TG group (P= 0.881), while the 5-year RFS rates were 64.8 and 61.9%, respectively (P= 0.571), with no statistically significant differences. Metastasis rates at lymph node stations #4d, #5, #6, and #12a were notably low in the TG group, with values of 2.74, 0.67, 1.33, and 1.74%, respectively. Conclusion: For proximal GC patients following NACT, PG maintains comparable curative potential and oncological efficacy to TG, making it a safe option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectivesTo clarify the safety and feasibility of laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG) with our novel reconstruction methods.MethodsNovel method is a reconstruction with a long and narrow gastric tube with widening of the proximal side created by linear stapler, and esophagogastrostomy is performed by linear stapler. In conventional method, esophagogastrostomy is performed by a circular stapler. Short- and long-term outcomes of a novel method were compared with those of conventional method.ResultsA total of 44 patients whom LPG was performed were enrolled in this retrospective study. No cases of anastomotic leakage and stenosis were observed in both groups. The cases of postoperative reflux esophagitis (Grade B or higher) at 1 year after operation in the Novel group were less than those in the Conventional group (17% vs. 44%).ConclusionLPG with novel reconstruction method can be easily performed, and may be feasible for the treatment of proximal gastric cancer.

Abstract Background The optimal reconstruction method after proximal gastrectomy remains unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the short-term outcomes and long-term quality of life of various reconstruction methods. Methods PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Library were searched to identify comparative studies concerning the reconstruction methods after proximal gastrectomy. The reconstruction methods were classified into six groups: double tract reconstruction (DTR), esophagogastrostomy (EG), gastric tube reconstruction (GT), jejunal interposition (JI), jejunal pouch interposition (JPI) and double flap technique (DFT). Esophagogastric anastomosis group (EG group) included EG, GT and DFT, while esophagojejunal anastomosis group (EJ group) included DTR, JI and JPI. Results A total of 27 studies with 2410 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled results indicated that the incidences of reflux esophagitis of DTR, EG, GT, JI, JPI and DFT were 7.6%, 27.3%, 4.5%, 7.1%, 14.0%, and 9.1%, respectively. The EG group had more reflux esophagitis (OR = 3.68, 95%CI 2.44–5.57, P

Simple Summary: The management of adenocarcinomas of the gastroesophageal junction is rapidly evolving, making it an interesting and important subject for review. In this review article, we provide a brief overview of the anatomic considerations that impact management and discuss the questions of true biologic nature, incidence, and prognosis that still persist. We discuss the choice of non-operative modalities—chemotherapy, chemoradiation, and immunotherapy—and describe key results from major trials that guide the current standard of care for treatment. We describe in more detail the surgical techniques for esophagectomy, including the advantages and disadvantages of each method, as well as newer surgical techniques for proximal gastrectomy that are especially applicable to Siewert type II tumors. 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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The optimal reconstruction method after proximal gastrectomy remains unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the short-term outcomes and long-term quality of life of various reconstruction methods. Methods: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Library were searched to identify comparative studies concerning the reconstruction methods after proximal gastrectomy. The reconstruction methods were classified into six groups: double tract reconstruction (DTR), esophagogastrostomy (EG), gastric tube reconstruction (GT), jejunal interposition (JI), jejunal pouch interposition (JPI) and double flap technique (DFT). Esophagogastric anastomosis group (EG group) included EG, GT and DFT, while esophagojejunal anastomosis group (EJ group) included DTR, JI and JPI. Results: A total of 27 studies with 2410 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled results indicated that the incidences of reflux esophagitis of DTR, EG, GT, JI, JPI and DFT were 7.6%, 27.3%, 4.5%, 7.1%, 14.0%, and 9.1%, respectively. The EG group had more reflux esophagitis (OR = 3.68, 95%CI 2.44–5.57, P < 0.00001) and anastomotic stricture (OR = 1.58, 95%CI 1.02–2.45, P = 0.04) than the EJ group. But the EG group showed shorter operation time (MD=-56.34, 95%CI -76.75- -35.94, P < 0.00001), lesser intraoperative blood loss (MD=-126.52, 95%CI -187.91- -65.12, P < 0.0001) and shorter postoperative hospital stay (MD=-2.07, 95%CI -3.66- -0.48, P = 0.01). Meanwhile, the EG group had fewer postoperative complications (OR = 0.68, 95%CI 0.51–0.90, P = 0.006) and lesser weight loss (MD=-1.25, 95%CI -2.11- -0.39, P = 0.004). For specific reconstruction methods, there were lesser reflux esophagitis (OR = 0.10, 95%CI 0.06–0.18, P < 0.00001) and anastomotic stricture (OR = 0.14, 95%CI 0.06–0.33, P < 0.00001) in DTR than the esophagogastrostomy. DTR and esophagogastrostomy showed no significant difference in anastomotic leakage (OR = 1.01, 95%CI 0.34–3.01, P = 0.98). Conclusion: Esophagojejunal anastomosis after proximal gastrectomy can reduce the incidences of reflux esophagitis and anastomotic stricture, while esophagogastric anastomosis has advantages in technical simplicity and long-term weight status. Double tract reconstruction is a safe technique with excellent anti-reflux effectiveness and favorable quality of life. Registration: This meta-analysis was registered on the PROSPERO (CRD42022381357). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Despite the increasing performance of laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG) for proximal gastric cancer and esophagogastric junction cancer, the benefit of LPG over laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG) remains to be established. Therefore, this study was conducted to compare postoperative outcomes between LPG and LTG. Methods: Data from 141 patients who underwent LPG or LTG for gastric neoplasm with curative intent between 2016 and 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Clinicopathological findings, body weight changes, and serological nutritional markers during the postoperative course were evaluated. Results: LPG and LTG were performed in 78 patients and 63 patients, respectively. Patients' characteristics did not differ; however, tumor stages in patients who underwent LTG were more advanced than those who underwent LPG. The mean (± standard deviation) weight loss rate after 1 year was −13.5 (±6.9)% and −18.7 (±6.6)% for LPG and LTG, respectively (p <.01). LTG (OR: 3.326, p <.01), pT disease (OR: 3.000, p =.01), pN disease (OR: 2.708, p =.02), and postoperative chemotherapy (OR: 2.488, p =.05) were correlated with severe weight loss (16% or more) 1 year after surgery, then multivariate analysis identified LTG as an independent factor (p =.01). The mean (± standard deviation) serum total protein level of LPG was significantly higher than that of LTG at 3 months (6.8 ± 0.5 vs. 6.6 ± 0.4 g/dL, p =.02) and 1 year (6.9 ± 0.4 vs. 6.7 ± 0.5 g/dL, p =.01) postoperatively. No difference was observed in postoperative serum hemoglobin and albumin levels. Conclusion: LPG more improved postoperative weight loss than LTG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There have been few studies regarding the feasibility and safety of pure single-incision laparoscopic total gastrectomy (SITG) or proximal gastrectomy (SIPG) for early gastric cancer (EGC). The purpose of this study was to analyze the surgical outcome of all consecutive SITG or SIPG cases compared with multiport laparoscopic total gastrectomy (MLTG) or proximal gastrectomy (MLPG) for EGC. Methods: We analyzed all consecutive SITG or SIPG cases with double-tract reconstruction for ECG, including the initial case, between March 2013 and December 2021. SITG/SIPG was performed on patients without significant systemic comorbidities through a 3–4 cm vertical transumbilical incision. SITG/SIPG was matched to multiport laparoscopic total or proximal gastrectomy (MLTG/MLPG) cases performed in the same period using a 1:3 propensity score matching, including sex, body mass index (BMI), age and type of resection, year of operation, and institution as covariates. We compared perioperative clinicopathological characteristics and early postoperative morbidity within 1 month after surgery between the SITG/SIPG and MLTG/MLPG groups. Results: In total, 21 patients with SITG and 15 patients with SIPG were compared with those with MLTG (n = 264) and MLPG (n = 220). No conversion to an open or multiport approach occurred in the SITG/SIPG group. After matching, operation time was similar between SITG/SIPG and MLTG/MLPG (223.9 ± 63.5 min vs 234.8 ± 68.7 min, P = 0.402). Length of stay was not significantly different between SITG/SIPG and MLTG/MLPG (11.9 ± 15.4 days vs 8.4 ± 5.0 days, P = 0.210). The average number of retrieved lymph nodes was not significantly different between SITG and MLTG (53.1 ± 16.3 vs 63.2 ± 27.5, P = 0.115), but it was significantly higher in SIPG than MLPG (59.6 ± 27.2 vs 46.0 ± 19.7, P = 0.040). The overall complication rate (30.6% vs 25.9%, P = 0.666) and Clavien–Dindo grade III or higher complication rates (13.9% vs 6.5%, P = 0.175) were not significantly different between the SITG/SIPG and MLTG/MLPG groups. Conclusion: Cautious adoption of SITG/SIPG procedures for EGC is feasible and safe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgical resection is the main treatment for proximal gastric cancer, but there is no consensus on its reconstruction. We carried out a meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of double-tract reconstruction (DTR) and double-flap technique (DFT) on postoperative quality of life in patients with proximal gastric cancer. Systematic searches of PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCO, and the Cochrane Library were performed. Literature for the last 5 years was searched without language restrictions. The cutoff date for the search was 12 April 2023. Literature and research searches were conducted independently by two researchers and data were extracted. Statistical analyses were performed using Review Manager (Revman) 5.4 software. Fixed models were used when heterogeneity was small and random-effects models were used for meta-analysis when heterogeneity was large. The study was registered with PROSPERO, CRD 42023418520. Surgical time was significantly shorter in the DTR group than in the DFT group (P = 0.03). There were no significant differences between DFT and DTR in terms of age, gender, pathological stage, preoperative body mass index, surgical bleeding, and perioperative complications. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of reflux esophagitis and PPI intake, but DFT was superior to DTR in weight improvement at 1 year after surgery (P < 0.0001). Compared with DTR, DFT reconstruction is more demanding and time-consuming, but its postoperative nutritional status is better, so it should be the first choice for GI reconstruction in most patients with early proximal gastric cancer. However, DTR should be the best choice for patients who have difficulty operating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Surgical procedures for proximal gastric cancer remain a highly debated topic. Total gastrectomy (TG) is widely accepted as a standard radical surgery. However, subtotal esophagectomy, proximal gastrectomy (PG) or even subtotal gastrectomy, when a small upper portion of the stomach can technically be preserved, are alternatives in current clinical practice. Methods: Using a cohort of the PGSAS NEXT trial, consisting of 1909 patients responding to a questionnaire sent to 70 institutions between July 2018 and December 2019, gastrectomy type, reconstruction method, and furthermore the remnant stomach size and the anti-reflux procedures for PG were evaluated. Results: TG was the procedure most commonly performed (63.0%), followed by PG (33.4%). Roux-en-Y was preferentially employed following TG irrespective of esophageal tumor invasion, while jejunal pouch was adopted in 8.5% of cases with an abdominal esophageal stump. Esophagogastrostomy was most commonly selected after PG, followed by the double-tract method. The former was preferentially employed for larger remnant stomachs (≧3/4), while being used slightly less often for tumors with as compared to those without esophageal invasion in cases with a remnant stomach 2/3 the size of the original stomach. Application of the double-tract method gradually increased as the remnant stomach size decreased. Anti-reflux procedures following esophagogastrostomy varied markedly. Conclusions: TG is the mainstream and PG remains an alternative in current Japanese clinical practice for proximal gastric cancer. Remnant stomach size and esophageal stump location appear to influence the choice of reconstruction method following PG.

Aim: An innovative method of digestive tract reconstruction following proximal gastrectomy, the uncut interposed jejunum pouch, esophagus and residual stomach double anastomosis(Uncut-D), was established in recent years. In order to fully clarify the superiority of the procedure, this study has conducted a systematic analysis and thorough discussion. Methods: 118 patients with adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction who underwent proximal gastrectomy were enrolled in this study. According to the methods of digestive tract reconstruction, these patients were divided into three groups: Uncut-D(n = 43), esophagogastrostomy (EG, n = 36), jejunal interposition (JI, n = 39).The preoperative indicators, surgical complications and related indicators of postoperative quality of life were analyzed. Results: There were no significant differences in preoperative data among all groups (P > 0.05); The digestive tract reconstruction time in Uncut-D group was more than that in EG group, and less than that in JI group (P

Abstract Background The current standard operation for proximal gastric and gastroesophageal junction (P/GEJ) cancers with limited esophageal extension is total gastrectomy (TG). TG is associated with impaired appetite and weight loss due to the loss of gastric functions such as production of ghrelin and with anemia due to intrinsic factor loss and vitamin B12 malabsorption. Theoretically, proximal gastrectomy (PG) can mitigate these problems by preserving gastric function. However, PG with direct esophagogastric reconstruction is associated with severe postoperative reflux, delayed gastric emptying, and poor quality of life (QoL). Minimally invasive PG (MIPG) with antireflux techniques has been increasingly performed by experts but is technically demanding owing to its complexity. Moreover, the actual advantages of MIPG over minimally invasive TG (MITG) with regards to postoperative QoL are unknown. Our overall objective of this study is to determine the short-term QoL benefits of MIPG. Our central hypotheses are that MIPG is safe and that patients have improved appetite after MIPG with effective antireflux techniques, which leads to an overall QoL improvement when compared with MITG. Methods Enrollment of a total of 60 patients in this prospective survey-collection study is expected. Procedures (MITG versus MIPG, antireflux techniques for MIPG [double-tract reconstruction versus the double-flap technique]) will be chosen based on surgeon and/or patient preference. Randomization is not considered feasible because patients often have strong preferences regarding MITG and MIPG. The primary outcome is appetite level (reported on a 0-10 scale) at 3 months after surgery. With an expected 30 patients per cohort (MITG versus MIPG), this study will have 80% power to detect a one-point difference in appetite level. Patient-reported outcomes will be longitudinally collected (including questions about appetite and reflux), and specific QoL items, body weight, body mass index and ghrelin, albumin, and hemoglobin levels will be compared. Discussion Surgeons from the US, Japan, and South Korea formed this collaboration with the agreement that the surgical approach to P/GEJ cancers is an internationally important but controversial topic that requires immediate action. At the completion of the proposed research, our expected outcome is the establishment of the benefit and safety of MIPG. Trial registration This trial was registered with Clinical Trials Reporting Program Registration under the registration number NCI-2022–00267 on January 11, 2022, as well as with ClinicalTrials.gov under the registration number NCT05205343 on January 11, 2022.

Abstract Background In Germany and Western Europe, gastroesophageal junction cancer (AEG) and proximal gastric cancer are currently treated with (transhiatal-extended) total gastrectomy (TG) according to the latest treatment guidelines. TG leads to a severe and long-lasting impairment of postoperative health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of the treated patients. Recent studies have suggested that HRQoL of these patients could be improved by proximal gastrectomy with double-tract reconstruction (PG-DTR) without compromising oncologic safety. Our aim is therefore to conduct a randomized controlled non-inferiority trial comparing PG-DTR with TG in AEG II/III and gastric cancer patients with overall survival as primary endpoint and HRQoL as key secondary endpoint. Methods This protocol is written with reference to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P 2015) statement. We will conduct searches in the electronic databases MEDLINE, Web of Science Core Collection, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library. We will also check references of relevant studies and perform a cited reference research. Titles and abstracts of the records identified by the searches will be screened, and full texts of all potentially relevant articles will be obtained. We will consider randomized trials and non-randomized studies. The selection of studies, data extraction, and assessment of risk of bias of the included studies will be conducted independently by two reviewers. Meta-analysis will be performed using RevMan 5.4 (Review Manager (RevMan) Version 5.4, The Cochrane Collaboration). Discussion This systematic review will identify the current study pool concerning the comparison of TG and PG-DTR and help to finally refine the research questions and to allow an evidence-based trial design of the planned multicenter randomized-controlled trial. Ethics and dissemination Ethical approval is not required for this systematic review. Study findings will be shared by publication in a peer-reviewed journal. Systematic review registration PROSPERO CRD42021291500.

The incidence rate of proximal gastric cancer in China and some Asian countries is increasing year by year. Surgery is the most effective and commonly used treatment for proximal gastric cancer. Traditional total gastrectomy has a good curative effect, but its complications, such as dystrophic metabolism and decreased quality of life, limited its use. In recent years, the proximal gastrectomy carried out clinically can remove tumor tissue and preserve part of gastric tissue, which is conducive to improving the postoperative nutritional status of patients. However, during proximal gastrectomy, the esophageal sphincter and His angle were damaged, resulting in residual gastric acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux, resulting in reflux esophagitis, which also affected the quality of life of the patients. In order to solve these problems, surgeons have explored different digestive tract reconstruction methods. So far, many digestive tract reconstruction methods have been reported. This paper introduced the commonly used digestive tract reconstruction methods, and summarized the literature on postoperative quality of life and survival outcomes, so as to provide reference and choice for surgeons.

Abstract Background Pancreatic head resection following proximal gastrectomy jeopardizes the blood flow of the remnant stomach owing to right gastroepiploic conduit sacrifice, thereby necessitating total gastrectomy. However, owing to its high invasiveness, concomitant remnant total gastrectomy with pancreatectomy should be avoided as much as possible. Herein, we describe our experience of total pancreatectomy with right gastroepiploic conduit preservation in a patient with a history of proximal gastrectomy and reconstruction by jejunum interposition. Case presentation A 78-year-old woman with a history of gastric cancer was followed up at our institute for multiple intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm, and main pancreatic duct stricture in the pancreatic head was newly detected. The cystic lesion was extended to the pancreatic body. Proximal gastrectomy and reconstruction by jejunal interposition were previously performed, and the mesenteric stalk of the interposed jejunum was approached through the retrocolic route. We planned total pancreatectomy with right gastroepiploic conduit preservation. Following adhesiolysis, the interposed jejunum and its mesentery lying in front of the pancreas were isolated. The arterial arcade from the common hepatic artery to the right gastroepiploic artery was detached from the pancreas. Furthermore, the right gastroepiploic vein was isolated from the pancreas. The pancreatic body and tail were pulled up in front of the remnant stomach, and the splenic artery and vein were resected. The pancreatic body and tail were pulled out to the right side, and the pancreatic head was divided from the pancreatic nerve plexus to the portal vein. The jejunal limb for entero-biliary anastomosis was passed through the hole behind the superior mesenteric artery and vein, and gastrointestinal anastomosis using the antecolic route and Braun anastomosis were performed. Conclusions To avoid remnant total gastrectomy, right gastroepiploic conduit preservation is an optional procedure for pancreatic head resection in patients who have undergone proximal gastrectomy with reconstruction by jejunal interposition.

In recent years, the rising incidence of adenocarcinoma of esophagogastric junction (AEG) and the subsequent surge in early detections have transformed the surgical treatment of AEG into a topic of substantial interest. The anatomical positioning of AEG, combined with the unique nature of its tumor biology, which encompasses two distinct surgical domains, the thoracic and abdominal cavities, has sparked numerous debates regarding the selection of treatment strategies. The comprehensiveness of lymph node dissection and the safety of digestive tract reconstruction are instrumental in shaping these strategies. The laparoscopic abdominal transhiatal (TH) approach offers a balance of addressing both these conside-rations. It ensures the oncological safety of inferior mediastinal lymph node dissection, while simultaneously performing abdominal lymph node dissection. This approach becomes a prime choice for AEG when the esophageal invasion length is ≤ 4 cm.When implementing the TH approach, surgeons have the ability to either augment the inferior mediastinal space or establish a direct connection between the abdomen and the left thoracic cavity by performing a strategic opening of the left diaphragm. Such a maneuver circumvents the need for traditional thoracotomy, thus enlarging the operating space and enhancing the surgical field of view. This method reduces chest trauma and enables a clearer and more comprehensive removal of inferior mediastinal lymph nodes. Moreover, ample operating space and sufficient esophageal dissection make high digestive tract reconstruction in the mediastinum or left thoracic cavity safer and more feasible. Our center has dubbed this approach the abdominal-left diaphragmatic (ALD) approach. Functional digestive tract reconstructions such as side overlap esophagogastrostomy （SOFY） anastomosis and double-flap technique can be progressively applied to a higher anastomosis plane through the ALD approach. Consequently, the ALD approach expands the indications for digestive tract reconstruction, ensures operational safety, and maintains an effective anti-reflux effect simultaneously.

Abstract Aim The current study compared the postoperative quality of life (QOL) between the esophagogastrostomy method (PGEG) and double tract method (PGDT) after proximal gastrectomy using the Postgastretomy Syndrome Assessment Scale (PGSAS)‐45. Methods Among the 2364 patients who received the PGSAS‐45 questionnaire, 300 PGEG and 172 PGDT cases responded. The main outcomes measures (MOMs) consisted of seven subscales (SS) covering symptoms, meals (amount and quality), ability to work, dissatisfaction with daily life, physical and mental component summary of the 8‐Item Short Form Health Survey (SF‐8), and change in body weight, and were compared between PGEG and PGDT. Results Overall, PGDT promoted significantly better constipation SS scores (p

An innovative method of digestive tract reconstruction following proximal gastrectomy, the uncut interposed jejunum pouch, esophagus and residual stomach double anastomosis(Uncut-D), was established in recent years. In order to fully clarify the superiority of the procedure, this study has conducted a systematic analysis and thorough discussion. 118 patients with adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction who underwent proximal gastrectomy were enrolled in this study. According to the methods of digestive tract reconstruction, these patients were divided into three groups: Uncut-D(n = 43), esophagogastrostomy (EG, n = 36), jejunal interposition (JI, n = 39).The preoperative indicators, surgical complications and related indicators of postoperative quality of life were analyzed. There were no significant differences in preoperative data among all groups (P > 0.05); The digestive tract reconstruction time in Uncut-D group was more than that in EG group, and less than that in JI group (P < 0.05). The incidence of esophageal anastomotic stenosis in Uncut-D group was significantly lower than that in EG group (P < 0.05); In Uncut-D group, the incidence of reflux esophagitis, postoperative nutrition index(PNI), weight recovery and Visick classification were significantly better than those in EG group (P < 0.05), furthermore, the incidence of delayed gastric emptying,PNI and weight recovery were better than those in JI group (P < 0.05). The Uncut-D procedure gave full play to jejunal continuity and the advantages of pouch, and played a valuable role in gastric and cardiac replacement, which significantly reduced long-term complications, improved postoperative nutritional status of patients and long-term quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgical procedures for proximal gastric cancer remain a highly debated topic. Total gastrectomy (TG) is widely accepted as a standard radical surgery. However, subtotal esophagectomy, proximal gastrectomy (PG) or even subtotal gastrectomy, when a small upper portion of the stomach can technically be preserved, are alternatives in current clinical practice. Using a cohort of the PGSAS NEXT trial, consisting of 1909 patients responding to a questionnaire sent to 70 institutions between July 2018 and December 2019, gastrectomy type, reconstruction method, and furthermore the remnant stomach size and the anti-reflux procedures for PG were evaluated. TG was the procedure most commonly performed (63.0%), followed by PG (33.4%). Roux-en-Y was preferentially employed following TG irrespective of esophageal tumor invasion, while jejunal pouch was adopted in 8.5% of cases with an abdominal esophageal stump. Esophagogastrostomy was most commonly selected after PG, followed by the double-tract method. The former was preferentially employed for larger remnant stomachs (≧3/4), while being used slightly less often for tumors with as compared to those without esophageal invasion in cases with a remnant stomach 2/3 the size of the original stomach. Application of the double-tract method gradually increased as the remnant stomach size decreased. Anti-reflux procedures following esophagogastrostomy varied markedly. TG is the mainstream and PG remains an alternative in current Japanese clinical practice for proximal gastric cancer. Remnant stomach size and esophageal stump location appear to influence the choice of reconstruction method following PG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Total gastrectomy has been performed for adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG) because of severe gastro-esophageal reflux (GER) after classic esophago-gastrostomy. Thus, we applied a novel esophago-gastrostomy with anti-reflux triangle-valve (EGAT) in Siewert type II/III AEG patients to prevent postoperative GER. Methods: This was a three-year retrospective cohort study. We followed 144 Siewert type II/III AEG patients who underwent EGAT (n = 73) and total gastrectomy (TG, n = 71) at our hospital. We analyzed the incidence of postoperative nutritional (hemoglobin, protein levels, and weight) and reflux esophagitis in the two groups. Finally, we conducted a survival analysis was performed. Results: The average operation time was significantly lower in the EGAT group than in the TG group. However, no significant differences were detected for postoperative complications between the two groups. Postoperative nutritional indexes, including albumin and prealbumin, were significantly higher in the EGAT group than in the TG group six months after surgery. Moreover, we evaluated the hemoglobin one year after surgery, and total protein and body weight after two years of surgery were significantly higher in the EGAT group compared to the TG group. Further, the reflux esophagitis follow-up did not differ (p > 0.05). Finally, no significant difference was detected in the 3‑year overall survival rate between the two groups of patients (p = 0.519). Conclusion: EGAT is simple and can prevent GER in Siewert type II/III AEG patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The current standard operation for proximal gastric and gastroesophageal junction (P/GEJ) cancers with limited esophageal extension is total gastrectomy (TG). TG is associated with impaired appetite and weight loss due to the loss of gastric functions such as production of ghrelin and with anemia due to intrinsic factor loss and vitamin B12 malabsorption. Theoretically, proximal gastrectomy (PG) can mitigate these problems by preserving gastric function. However, PG with direct esophagogastric reconstruction is associated with severe postoperative reflux, delayed gastric emptying, and poor quality of life (QoL). Minimally invasive PG (MIPG) with antireflux techniques has been increasingly performed by experts but is technically demanding owing to its complexity. Moreover, the actual advantages of MIPG over minimally invasive TG (MITG) with regards to postoperative QoL are unknown. Our overall objective of this study is to determine the short-term QoL benefits of MIPG. Our central hypotheses are that MIPG is safe and that patients have improved appetite after MIPG with effective antireflux techniques, which leads to an overall QoL improvement when compared with MITG. Methods: Enrollment of a total of 60 patients in this prospective survey-collection study is expected. Procedures (MITG versus MIPG, antireflux techniques for MIPG [double-tract reconstruction versus the double-flap technique]) will be chosen based on surgeon and/or patient preference. Randomization is not considered feasible because patients often have strong preferences regarding MITG and MIPG. The primary outcome is appetite level (reported on a 0-10 scale) at 3 months after surgery. With an expected 30 patients per cohort (MITG versus MIPG), this study will have 80% power to detect a one-point difference in appetite level. Patient-reported outcomes will be longitudinally collected (including questions about appetite and reflux), and specific QoL items, body weight, body mass index and ghrelin, albumin, and hemoglobin levels will be compared. Discussion: Surgeons from the US, Japan, and South Korea formed this collaboration with the agreement that the surgical approach to P/GEJ cancers is an internationally important but controversial topic that requires immediate action. At the completion of the proposed research, our expected outcome is the establishment of the benefit and safety of MIPG. Trial registration: This trial was registered with Clinical Trials Reporting Program Registration under the registration number NCI-2022–00267 on January 11, 2022, as well as with ClinicalTrials.gov under the registration number NCT05205343 on January 11, 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In Germany and Western Europe, gastroesophageal junction cancer (AEG) and proximal gastric cancer are currently treated with (transhiatal-extended) total gastrectomy (TG) according to the latest treatment guidelines. TG leads to a severe and long-lasting impairment of postoperative health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of the treated patients. Recent studies have suggested that HRQoL of these patients could be improved by proximal gastrectomy with double-tract reconstruction (PG-DTR) without compromising oncologic safety. Our aim is therefore to conduct a randomized controlled non-inferiority trial comparing PG-DTR with TG in AEG II/III and gastric cancer patients with overall survival as primary endpoint and HRQoL as key secondary endpoint. Methods: This protocol is written with reference to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P 2015) statement. We will conduct searches in the electronic databases MEDLINE, Web of Science Core Collection, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library. We will also check references of relevant studies and perform a cited reference research. Titles and abstracts of the records identified by the searches will be screened, and full texts of all potentially relevant articles will be obtained. We will consider randomized trials and non-randomized studies. The selection of studies, data extraction, and assessment of risk of bias of the included studies will be conducted independently by two reviewers. Meta-analysis will be performed using RevMan 5.4 (Review Manager (RevMan) Version 5.4, The Cochrane Collaboration). Discussion: This systematic review will identify the current study pool concerning the comparison of TG and PG-DTR and help to finally refine the research questions and to allow an evidence-based trial design of the planned multicenter randomized-controlled trial. Ethics and dissemination: Ethical approval is not required for this systematic review. Study findings will be shared by publication in a peer-reviewed journal. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42021291500. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In this western study, we aimed to compare perioperative outcomes, postoperative complications, and overall survival in patients who underwent total gastrectomy (TG) or proximal gastrectomy (PG) for proximal gastric cancer (GC). Methods: Patients who underwent GC surgery at Marmara University Hospital between January 2014 and December 2021 were evaluated retrospectively. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to balance the baseline characteristics of patients undergoing PG and TG. Data on patients' demographics, clinicopathological features of tumors, complications, and survival rates were analyzed. Perioperative outcomes and overall survival of the patients were compared between PG and TG groups. Results: A total of 212 patients were included in this study, with 53 patients in the PG and 159 in the TG group. After 1:1 matching according to PSM, 46 patients in the PG group were matched to 46 in the TG group. After PSM, there were no differences in clinicopathological outcomes except retrieved lymph nodes. In terms of short-term outcomes, overall perioperative morbidity (Clavien Dindo ≥ 3a) was significantly higher in the PG group (p = 0.01). However, there was no significant difference when the complications were considered separately. In the long-term follow-up, reflux esophagitis was associated with the PG group (p=0.04). In multivariate analysis, positive surgical margin and lymphovascular invasion were significant factors related to overall survival. Overall, 5-year survival was 55% in matched patients. The difference in survival was not statistically significant (57 vs. 69 months, p = 0.3) between the two groups. Conclusions: Proximal gastrectomy is applicable to patients up to stage 3 disease, with no difference in overall survival, with caution in early complications and reflux esophagitis. Among all demographic and oncological factors, lymphovascular invasion and resection margin were significantly associated with worse survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background There is no standard reconstruction method following proximal gastrectomy, of which gastroesophageal reflux and anastomotic complications are of great concern. Though several techniques have been devised to overcome these postoperative complications, such as double tract reconstruction, double-flap technique and side overlap fundoplication by Yamashita, none of them is considered a perfect solution. Herein, we designed a novel method of esophagogastrostomy after laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG), named right-sided overlap and single-flap valvuloplasty (ROSF). Methods Between March 2021 and December 2021, 20 consecutive patients underwent LPG-ROSF at Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University. Surgical outcomes and postoperative complications were recorded. All patients were followed-up until December 2022. Endoscopy and assessment of gastrointestinal symptoms were performed 1 year after surgery. Nutrition-related parameters including total body weight, hemoglobin, lymphocyte count, serum total protein, serum albumin and serum prealbumin were evaluated 1 year after surgery and compared with those before surgery. Results The mean surgery time and anastomosis time was 285.3 ± 71.3 and 61.3 ± 11.2 min respectively. None of the patients had gastrointestinal early postoperative complications. Symptomatic reflux was observed in one patient (5%) while reflux esophagitis (Los Angeles Grade A) was observed in another patient (5%). Four patients (20%) had mild dysphagia (Visick score = II) but none of them had anastomotic stenosis. There were no significant changes in nutritional status postoperatively. Conclusions ROSF can be safely performed after LPG and has satisfactory outcomes in preventing reflux and stenosis, and maintaining nutritional status. This technique requires further validation.

Abstract Background Conventional methods for treating patients with proximal gastric cancer (PGC) include proximal gastrectomy (PG) and total gastrectomy (TG) and such methods have become challenging due to double tract reconstruction (DTR). However, the clinical outcomes remain unclear. This study was performed with the aim of verifying that PG-DTR was beneficial in terms of reducing the incidence of postoperative complications and improving the prognosis. Methods The PGC patient cohort was retrospectively grouped into the PG-DTR and TG groups. Clinicopathological features, complications, and survival data were compared between the two groups. Results A total of 388 patients were included in the analyses. Patients who were subjected to TG tended to have more severe gastroesophageal reflux (GR) (P = 0.041), anemia (P = 0.007), and hypoalbuminemia (P 1 and P 0.05). Moreover, the nomogram derived from significant parameters showed great calibration and discrimination ability and significant clinical benefit. Conclusions The patients who underwent PG-DTR had a favorable prognosis. The risk of postoperative complications, such as severe GR, anemia, and hypoalbuminemia, was lower in PG-DTR than in TG. Thus, PG-DTR is more beneficial for patients with PGC and may be a valuable and promising surgical procedure.

Although the double flap technique effectively reduces the incidence of postoperative reflux esophagitis and anastomotic leakage after laparoscopic gastrectomy, its clinical application is restricted because the procedure is technical complex. We devised a modified esophagogastric reconstructive method which we termed the "arch-bridge-type" reconstruction. This reconstruction method was performed for a 71-year-old man, who was admitted to our hospital with the diagnosis of cT2N0 upper gastric cancer. The present study reported the surgical details and accompanied with the video. The patient underwent surgery successfully without switching to open surgery. The total operation time was 203 min, the time for making the "arch-bridge" was 16 min, and the time for esophagogastric anastomosis under laparoscopy was 23 min. No surgery-related complications occurred. The postoperative hospital stay was 10 days. The upper GI radiography demonstrated that the anastomosis was not narrow and no extravasation of contrast agent was observed. The gastroscopy found no reflux esophagitis and anastomotic stenosis 1 year after surgery. The "arch-bridge-type" reconstruction method is safe and time saving. It has advantages in simplifying the procedure of conventional double flap technique and reducing postoperative complications after proximal gastrectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proximal gastrectomy (PG) in combination with jejunal pouch interposition is a technique aimed at improving the postoperative dietary outcomes; however, some cases are reported to require surgical intervention owing to difficulty of food intake caused by pouch dysfunction. Herein, we present a case of robot‐assisted surgery for interposed jejunal pouch (IJP) dysfunction in a 79‐year‐old male, occurring 25 years after the initial PG for gastric cancer. The patient had chronic anorexia for 2 years and was treated with medications and dietary guidance; however, 3 months prior to admission his quality of life had reduced, owing to worsening symptoms. The patient was diagnosed with pouch dysfunction due to extremely dilated IJP identified using computed tomography and underwent robot‐assisted total remnant gastrectomy (RATRG) with IJP resection. After an uneventful course of intraoperative and postoperative treatment, he was discharged with sufficient food intake on postoperative day 9. RATRG can, thus, be considered in patients with IJP dysfunction after PG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pancreatic head resection following proximal gastrectomy jeopardizes the blood flow of the remnant stomach owing to right gastroepiploic conduit sacrifice, thereby necessitating total gastrectomy. However, owing to its high invasiveness, concomitant remnant total gastrectomy with pancreatectomy should be avoided as much as possible. Herein, we describe our experience of total pancreatectomy with right gastroepiploic conduit preservation in a patient with a history of proximal gastrectomy and reconstruction by jejunum interposition. Case presentation: A 78-year-old woman with a history of gastric cancer was followed up at our institute for multiple intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm, and main pancreatic duct stricture in the pancreatic head was newly detected. The cystic lesion was extended to the pancreatic body. Proximal gastrectomy and reconstruction by jejunal interposition were previously performed, and the mesenteric stalk of the interposed jejunum was approached through the retrocolic route. We planned total pancreatectomy with right gastroepiploic conduit preservation. Following adhesiolysis, the interposed jejunum and its mesentery lying in front of the pancreas were isolated. The arterial arcade from the common hepatic artery to the right gastroepiploic artery was detached from the pancreas. Furthermore, the right gastroepiploic vein was isolated from the pancreas. The pancreatic body and tail were pulled up in front of the remnant stomach, and the splenic artery and vein were resected. The pancreatic body and tail were pulled out to the right side, and the pancreatic head was divided from the pancreatic nerve plexus to the portal vein. The jejunal limb for entero-biliary anastomosis was passed through the hole behind the superior mesenteric artery and vein, and gastrointestinal anastomosis using the antecolic route and Braun anastomosis were performed. Conclusions: To avoid remnant total gastrectomy, right gastroepiploic conduit preservation is an optional procedure for pancreatic head resection in patients who have undergone proximal gastrectomy with reconstruction by jejunal interposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy with double-tract reconstruction (LPG-DTR) and laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy with tube-like stomach reconstruction (LPG-TLR) are both function-preserving procedures performed for treating AEG. However, there is no clinical consensus on the selection of digestive tract reconstruction after proximal gastrectomy, and the best way to reconstruct the digestive tract remains controversial. This study aimed at comparing the clinical outcomes of LPG-DTR and LPG-TLR to provide some reference to the choice of AEG surgical modalities. Methods: This was a multicenter, retrospective cohort study. we collected clinicopathological and follow-up data of patients with consecutive cases diagnosed with AEG from January 2016 to June 2021 in five medical centers. According to the way of digestive tract reconstruction after tumor resection, patients who underwent LPG-DTR or LPG-TLR were included in the present study. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to balance baseline variables that might affect the study outcomes. The QOL of the patients was evaluated using the Visick grade. Results: A total of 124 eligible consecutive cases were finally included. Patients in both groups were matched using the PSM method, and 55 patients from each group were included in the analysis after PSM. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of the operation time, amount of intraoperative blood loss, days of postoperative abdominal drainage tube placement, postoperative hospitalization days, total hospitalization cost, the total number of lymph nodes cleared, and the number of positive lymph nodes (P>0.05). There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of time to first flatus after surgery and postoperative soft food recovery time (P<0.05). For the nutritional status, the weight levels at 1 year after surgery was better in the LPG-DTR group than in the LPG-TLR group (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in Visick grade between the two groups (P>0.05). Conclusion: The anti-reflux effect and quality of life of LPG-DTR for AEG were comparable to those of LPG-TLR. Compared with LPG-TLR, LPG-DTR provide better nutrition status for patients with AEG. LPG-DTR is a superior reconstruction method after proximal gastrectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The current study compared the postoperative quality of life (QOL) between the esophagogastrostomy method (PGEG) and double tract method (PGDT) after proximal gastrectomy using the Postgastretomy Syndrome Assessment Scale (PGSAS)‐45. Methods: Among the 2364 patients who received the PGSAS‐45 questionnaire, 300 PGEG and 172 PGDT cases responded. The main outcomes measures (MOMs) consisted of seven subscales (SS) covering symptoms, meals (amount and quality), ability to work, dissatisfaction with daily life, physical and mental component summary of the 8‐Item Short Form Health Survey (SF‐8), and change in body weight, and were compared between PGEG and PGDT. Results: Overall, PGDT promoted significantly better constipation SS scores (p < 0.05), whereas PGEG tended to promote better body weight (BW) loss% (p < 0.10). A stratified analysis based on the remnant stomach size revealed that among those with a remnant stomach size of 1/2, PGDT had significantly better constipation and dumping SS scores (p < 0.05) and tended to have better working conditions (p < 0.10) compared to PGEG. Even among those with the remnant stomach size of 2/3, PGDT had significantly better diarrhea SS scores, lesser dissatisfaction with symptoms, and better dissatisfaction with daily life SS scores (p < 0.05) and tended to have better constipation SS scores and lesser dissatisfaction with work (p < 0.10) compared to PGEG. Conclusions: After comparing the QOLs of PGEG and PGDT, the stratified analysis according to remnant stomach sizes of 1/2 and 2/3 revealed that PGDT was relatively superior to PGEG for several MOMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]