Authors: N Thairu S Biswas Y Abdulaal H Ali
Publish Date: 2007/05/24
Volume: 21, Issue: 10, Pages: 1887-1890
Abstract
The benefits of laparoscopic procedures over the traditional open technique for esophagectomy in the management of esophageal cancer are well documented A disadvantage of the laparoscopic technique is longer surgery particularly in the early part of a surgeon’s “learning curve” In a twostage IvorLewis procedure performance of the esophagogastric anastomosis within the chest can be a “ratelimiting step” A circular stapler is used which requires placement of a pursestring suture or a manuallytied knot around in the transected proximal esophagus to secure the anvil in place This is technically demanding and timeconsuming in the laparoscopic setting The authors have devised a method that obviates the need for a purse string or knot simplifying the intrathoracic esophagogastric anastomosis while still achieving a safe anastomosis
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