International Survey on the Management of Anastomotic Leakage After Esophageal Resection

Abstract

Background: Anastomotic leakage is one of the most severe complications following esophageal surgery, leading to significant morbidity, prolonged hospital stay, considerable costs, decreased quality of life, and increased mortality. Management of anastomotic leakage is complicated and has currently not been standardized. The objective of this research is to gain insight into the different opinions on anastomotic leakage management among upper gastrointestinal surgeons and verify the need for diagnostic and treatment guidelines.

Methods: Surgeons with interest in esophageal surgery were invited to participate in an international online questionnaire. The survey consisted of questions pertaining to the surgeons' experience, operation techniques, management routine, and opinion on future international guidelines on the treatment of anastomotic leakage.

Results: Of the 331 invited surgeons, 40% participated in the survey. Among the 129 responders, 90.7% use laboratory diagnostics and 62.8% use imaging or endoscopy postoperatively on a routine basis to detect anastomotic leakage. In case of suspected anastomotic leakage, the most chosen diagnostic imaging modalities were computed tomography scan (35.7%) or dynamic swallow investigation (33.3%). Independent from the clinical manifestations, participants of this survey treat patients very differently. More than 70% of the responders agreed that there is a need for diagnostic and therapeutic international guidelines on anastomotic leakage management.

Conclusions: This survey shows that there is no standardized guideline for diagnostic workup or management of anastomotic leakage and that there is a need for an international guideline regarding the optimal management of anastomotic leakage.