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Review
. 2021 Jan 11;34(1):doaa039.
doi: 10.1093/dote/doaa039.

Anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy for esophageal cancer: definitions, diagnostics, and treatment

M Fabbi  1 , E R C Hagens  2 , M I van Berge Henegouwen  2 , S S Gisbertz  2
Affiliations
Review

Anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy for esophageal cancer: definitions, diagnostics, and treatment

M Fabbi et al. Dis Esophagus. .

Abstract

Anastomotic leakage is one of the most severe complications after esophagectomy and is associated with increased postoperative morbidity and mortality. Several projects ranging from small retrospective studies to large collaborations have aimed to identify potential pre- and perioperative risk factors and to improve the diagnostic processes and management. Despite the increase in available literature, many aspects of anastomotic leakage are still debated, without the existence of widely accepted guidelines. The purpose of this review is to provide a cutting edge overview of the recent literature regarding the definition and classification of anastomotic leakage, risk factors, novel diagnostic modalities, and emerging therapeutic options for treatment and prevention of anastomotic leakage following esophagectomy.

Keywords: anastomotic dehiscence; anastomotic leakage; esophageal cancer; esophageal resection; gastric tube reconstruction.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Gastric conduit before transfer to cervical region. This is a near infrared fluorescence view with the fluorescent signal displayed in white. A clear demarcation is noticed at the red arrow. The anastomosis was constructed within the fluorescent area.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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