Transhiatal oesophagectomy: techniques, tips and outcomes

Abstract

Aim: To demonstrate our technique and valuable tips for transhiatal oesophagectomies.

Method: 215 patients underwent transhiatal oesophagectomies in our unit between 2000 and 2006.

Results: In-hospital mortality was 0.9%. Anastomotic leak in 12 patients (5.6%). Chyle leak was seen in five patients and recurrent nerve neuropraxia in six patients. Iatrogenic splenectomy rate was 6%. The median operative time was 151 minutes (range 93-276 minutes). Overall median length of hospital stay was 15 days (range 8-95 days). The median survival for all patients undergoing transhiatal oesophagectomy for invasive malignancy was 42.9 months and the one-year and five-year survival were 81% and 48% respectively.

Conclusion: This is a safe and oncologically sound procedure. We feel that the tips can be helpful for anyone performing this procedure.