Neil A. Christie

Minimally invasive esophagectomy: outcomes in 222 patients.

Objective: To assess our outcomes after minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE). Summary Background Data: Esophagectomy has traditionally been performed by open methods. Results from most series include mortality rates in excess of 5% and hospital stays frequently greater than 10 days. MIE has the potential to improve these results, but only a few small series have been reported. This report summarizes our experience of 222 cases. Methods: From 1996 to 2002, MIE was performed in 222 patients. Indications for operation included high-grade dysplasia (n = 47) and cancer (n = 175). Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was used in 78 (35.1%) and radiation in 36 (16.2%). Initially, a laparoscopic transhiatal approach was used (n = 8), but subsequently our approach evolved to include thoracoscopic mobilization (n = 214). Results: There were 186 men and 36 women. Median age was 66.5 years (range, 39–89). Nonemergent conversion to open procedure was required in 16 patients (7.2%). MIE was successfully completed in 206 (92.8%) patients. The median intensive care unit stay was 1 day (range, 1–30); hospital stay was 7 days (range, 3–75). Operative mortality was 1.4% (n = 3). Anastomotic leak rate was 11.7% (n = 26). At a mean follow-up of 19 months (range, 1–68), quality of life scores were similar to preoperative values and population norms. Stage specific survival was similar to open series Conclusions: MIE offers results as good as or better than open operation in our center with extensive minimally invasive and open experience. In this single institution experience, we observed a lower mortality rate (1.4%) and shorter hospital stay (7 days) than most open series. Given these results, we are now developing an intergroup trial (ECOG 2202) to assess MIE in a multicenter setting.

Outcomes After Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy Review of Over 1000 Patients

Background: Esophagectomy is a complex operation and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. In an attempt to lower morbidity, we have adopted a minimally invasive approach to esophagectomy. Objectives: Our primary objective was to evaluate the outcomes of minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) in a large group of patients. Our secondary objective was to compare the modified McKeown minimally invasive approach (videothoracoscopic surgery, laparoscopy, neck anastomosis [MIE-neck]) with our current approach, a modified Ivor Lewis approach (laparoscopy, videothoracoscopic surgery, chest anastomosis [MIE-chest]). Methods: We reviewed 1033 consecutive patients undergoing MIE. Elective operation was performed on 1011 patients; 22 patients with nonelective operations were excluded. Patients were stratified by surgical approach and perioperative outcomes analyzed. The primary endpoint studied was 30-day mortality. Results: The MIE-neck was performed in 481 (48%) and MIE-Ivor Lewis in 530 (52%). Patients undergoing MIE-Ivor Lewis were operated in the current era. The median number of lymph nodes resected was 21. The operative mortality was 1.68%. Median length of stay (8 days) and ICU stay (2 days) were similar between the 2 approaches. Mortality rate was 0.9%, and recurrent nerve injury was less frequent in the Ivor Lewis MIE group (P < 0.001). Conclusions: MIE in our center resulted in acceptable lymph node resection, postoperative outcomes, and low mortality using either an MIE-neck or an MIE-chest approach. The MIE Ivor Lewis approach was associated with reduced recurrent laryngeal nerve injury and mortality of 0.9% and is now our preferred approach. Minimally invasive esophagectomy can be performed safely, with good results in an experienced center.

Minimally invasive esophagectomy.

BACKGROUND Open esophagectomy can be associated with significant morbidity and delay return to routine activities. Minimally invasive surgery may lower the morbidity of esophagectomy but only a few small series have been published. METHODS From August 1996 to September 1999, 77 patients underwent minimally invasive esophagectomy. Initially, esophagectomy was approached totally laparoscopically or with mini-thoracotomy; thoracoscopy subsequently replaced thoracotomy. RESULTS Indications included esophageal carcinoma (n = 54), Barretts high-grade dysplasia or carcinoma in situ (n = 17), and benign miscellaneous (n = 6). There were 50 men and 27 women with an average age of 66 years (range 30 to 94 years). Median operative time was 7.5 hours (4.5 hours with > 20 case experience). Median intensive care unit stay was 1 day (range 0 to 60 days); median length of stay was 7 days (range 4 to 73 days) with no operative or hospital mortalities. There were four nonemergent conversions to open esophagectomy; major and minor complication rates were 27% and 55%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Minimally invasive esophagectomy is technically feasible and safe in our center, which has extensive minimally invasive and open esophageal experience. Open surgery should remain the standard until future studies conclusively demonstrate advantages of minimally invasive approaches.

Laparoscopic repair of giant paraesophageal hernia: 100 Consecutive cases

ObjectiveTo summarize the authors’ laparoscopic experience for paraesophageal hernia (PEH). Summary Background DataLaparoscopic antireflux surgery and repair of small hiatal hernias are now routinely performed. Repair of a giant PEH is more complex and requires conventional surgery in most centers. Giant PEH accounts for approximately 5% of all hiatal hernias. Medical management may be associated with a 50% progression of symptoms and a significant death rate. Conventional open surgery has a low death rate, but complications are significant and return to routine activities is delayed in this frequently elderly population. Recently, short-term outcome studies have reported that minimally invasive approaches to PEH may be associated with a lower complication rate, a shorter hospital stay, and faster recovery. MethodsFrom July 1995 to February 2000, 100 patients (median age 68) underwent laparoscopic repair of a giant PEH. Follow-up included heartburn scores and quality of life measurements using the SF-12 physical component and mental component summary scores. ResultsThere were 8 type II hernias, 85 type III, and 7 type IV. Sac removal, crural repair, and antireflux procedures were performed (72 Nissen, 27 Collis-Nissen). The 30-day death rate was zero; there was one surgery-related death at 5 months from a perioperative stroke. Intraoperative complications included pneumothorax, esophageal perforation, and gastric perforation. There were three conversions to open surgery. Major postoperative complications included stroke, myocardial infarction, pulmonary emboli, adult respiratory distress syndrome, and repeat operations (two for abscess and one each for hematoma, repair leak, and recurrent hernia). Median length of stay was 2 days. Median follow-up at 12 months revealed resumption of proton pump inhibitors in 10 patients and one repeat operation for recurrence. The mean heartburn score was 2.3 (0, best; 45, worst); the satisfaction score was 91%; physical and mental component summary scores were 49 and 54, respectively (normal, 50). ConclusionThis report represents the largest series to date of laparoscopic repair of giant PEH. In the authors’ center with extensive experience in minimally invasive surgery, laparoscopic repair of giant PEH was successfully performed in 97% of patients, with a minimal complication rate, a 2-day length of stay, and good intermediate results.

Results of laparoscopic repair of giant paraesophageal hernias: 200 consecutive patients

BACKGROUND Giant paraesophageal hernias (GPEH) have traditionally required open operations. Increasingly, a laparoscopic approach is being applied to more complex esophageal surgery. Our objective was to update our growing experience with laparoscopic repair of GPEH. METHODS We performed a retrospective review at our institution of patients undergoing laparoscopic repair of GPEH from July 1995 to July 2001. The GPEH was defined as greater than one-third of the stomach in the chest. RESULTS Elective laparoscopic repair of a GPEH was attempted in 203 patients. Mean age was 67 years. The most common symptoms included heartburn (96 patients), dysphagia (72), epigastric pain (56), and vomiting (47 patients). Laparoscopic procedures included 69 Nissens, 112 Collis-Nissens, and 19 other procedures. There were three open conversions due to adhesions, but no intraoperative emergencies. Median length of stay was 3 days (range, 1 to 120 days). Minor or major complications occurred in 57 patients (28%). There were six postoperative esophageal leaks (3%), and 1 death. Median follow-up was 18 months. Five patients required reoperation for recurrent hiatal hernia. Excellent results were reported in 128 (84%) patients, 12 (8%) had a good result, 7 (5%) fair, and 5 (3%) poor (based on postoperative follow-up and GERD questionnaire). The mean postoperative GERD Health-related Quality of Life Score was 2.4 (scale 0 to 45; 0 = no symptoms, 45 = worst). CONCLUSIONS Laparoscopic repair of GPEH is possible in the majority of patients with acceptable morbidity, a median length of hospital stay of 3 days and excellent intermediate-term results in an experienced center.

Outcomes after a Decade of Laparoscopic Giant Paraesophageal Hernia Repair

OBJECTIVE Laparoscopic repair of giant paraesophageal hernia is a complex operation requiring significant laparoscopic expertise. Our objective was to compare our current approach and outcomes for laparoscopic repair of giant paraesophageal hernia with our previous experience. METHODS A retrospective review of patients undergoing nonemergency laparoscopic repair of giant paraesophageal hernia, stratified by early versus current era (January 1997-June 2003 and July 2003-June 2008), was performed. We evaluated clinical outcomes, barium esophagogram, and quality of life. RESULTS Laparoscopic repair of giant paraesophageal hernia was performed in 662 patients (median age 70 years, range 19-92 years) with a median percentage of herniated stomach of 70% (range 30%-100%). With time, use of Collis gastroplasty decreased (86% to 53%), as did crural mesh reinforcement (17% to 12%). Current era patients were 50% more likely to have a Charlson comorbidity index score greater than 3. Thirty-day mortality was 1.7% (11/662). Mortality and complication rates were stable with time, despite increasing comorbid disease in current era. Postoperative gastroesophageal reflux disease health-related quality of life scores were available for 489 patients (30-month median follow-up), with good to excellent results in 90% (438/489). Radiographic recurrence (15.7%) was not associated with symptom recurrence. Reoperation occurred in 3.2% (21/662). CONCLUSIONS With time, we have obtained significant minimally invasive experience and refined our approach to laparoscopic repair of giant paraesophageal hernia. Perioperative morbidity and mortality remain low, despite increased comorbid disease in the current era. Laparoscopic repair provided excellent patient satisfaction and symptom improvement, even with small radiographic recurrences. Reoperation rates were comparable to the best open series.

Results of expandable metal stents for malignant esophageal obstruction in 100 patients: short-term and long-term follow-up

BACKGROUND Expandable metal stents palliate malignant dysphagia in most cases, but early complications and outcomes in long-term survivors have not been well described. This report summarizes our experience with expandable metal stents for malignant dysphagia. METHODS Over a 48-month period, 127 stents were placed in 100 patients with dysphagia from esophageal cancer (93%) or lung cancer. Most had undergone prior treatment. Dysphagia scores, duration of palliation, complications, and reintervention were evaluated. RESULTS Immediate improvement in dysphagia was observed in 85% of patients with no procedure-related deaths. Dysphagia score decreased from 3.3 before stent to 2.3 (p < 0.005). Average interval to reintervention was 80 days. In 40 patients surviving more than 120 days, 31 (78%) required reintervention. Major complications occurred in 3 patients receiving poststent chemoradiation (tracheoesophageal fistula, T1 vertebral body abscess, mediastinal abscess). Other complications included unsatisfactory deployment requiring immediate removal (3 patients), migration (11 patients), pain requiring removal (2 patients), food impaction (10 patients), and tumor ingrowth (37 patients). CONCLUSIONS Expandable metal stents offer excellent short-term palliation of malignant dysphagia. In long-term survivors, recurrent dysphagia requiring reintervention is common. In a small subset of patients receiving chemoradiation after stent placement, major complications were observed.

Photodynamic therapy as palliation for esophageal cancer: experience in 215 patients

BACKGROUND Photodynamic therapy (PDT) utilizes a photosensitizing agent, light, and oxygen to endoscopically ablate cancer cells. This review summarizes our experience with PDT for the palliation of bleeding or obstructing esophageal cancer (EC). METHODS All patients with bleeding or obstructing EC treated with PDT from November 1996 through June 2002, were reviewed. After Photofrin II injection, nonthermal light treatment was delivered endoscopically. Dysphagia scores, duration of palliation, reinterventions, complications, and survival after treatment were reviewed. RESULTS A total of 215 patients underwent 318 courses of PDT for bleeding (n = 15), obstruction (n = 277), bleeding and obstruction (n = 18), or other indications (n = 8). Tumor histology included 179 adenocarcinomas, 33 squamous cell carcinomas, and 3 undifferentiated. Seventy-five percent of EC were in the distal esophagus. In 85% of courses for obstruction, mean dysphagia scores improved pre- and post-PDT. The mean dysphagia-free interval was 66 days. Supplemental nutrition was discontinued after PDT in 8 of 27 patients (30%). Thirty-five patients required stent placement after PDT with a mean interval to reintervention of 58.5 days. PDT complications included perforation (2% of treatment courses), stricture (2%), Candida esophagitis (2%), pleural effusions (4%), and sunburn (6%). The procedure-related mortality rate was 1.8%, and median survival was 4.8 months. CONCLUSIONS PDT offers effective palliation for patients with obstructing EC in 85% of treatment courses. The ideal EC patient for PDT palliation has an obstructing endoluminal cancer. Patients living more than 2 months may require reintervention to maintain palliation of malignant dysphagia, and a multimodality treatment approach is common.

Outcomes after minimally invasive esophagomyotomy.

BACKGROUND Thoracic surgeons traditionally performed thoracotomy and myotomy for achalasia. Recently minimally invasive approaches have been reported with good success. This report summarizes our single-institution experience using video-assisted thoracoscopy (VATS) or laparoscopy (LAP) for the treatment of achalasia. METHODS A review of 62 patients undergoing minimally invasive myotomy for achalasia was performed. There were 27 male and 35 female patients. Mean age was 53 years (range 14 to 86). Thirty-seven (59.7%) had failed prior treatments (balloon dilation, botulinim toxin injection, or prior surgery). Outcomes studied were dysphagia score (1 = none, 5 = severe), Short-Form 36 quality of life (SF36 QOL) score, and heartburn-related QOL index (HRQOL). RESULTS Surgery included myotomy and partial fundoplication (5 VATS and 57 LAP). Mortality was zero, and complications occurred in 9 (14.5%) patients. There were 6 perforations (4 repaired by LAP and 2 open). Median length of stay was 2 days, time to oral intake was 1 day. At a mean of 19 months follow-up, 92.5% of patients were satisfied with outcome. Dysphagia scores improved from 3.6 to 1.5 (p < 0.01) but 3 patients ultimately required esophagectomy for recurrent dysphagia. HRQOL scores for heartburn and SF-36 QOL scores were comparable with control populations. CONCLUSIONS Minimally invasive myotomy and partial fundoplication for achalasia improved dysphagia in 92.5% of patients with heartburn and QOL scores were comparable with normal values at 19-month follow-up. The laparoscopic approach offers excellent results and was the preferred approach by our thoracic group for treating achalasia. Thoracic residency training should strive to include laparoscopic esophageal experience.

Outcomes of laparoscopic Toupet compared to laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.

BackgroundRecent reports suggest that partial fundoplications such as the laparoscopic Toupet (LT) ultimately suffer from a higher recurrence rate compared to complete wraps such as the laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF). This article summarizes our experience with LT and LNF.MethodsOver a 45-month period (February 1995 to November 1998), 206 patients underwent laparoscopic antireflux operations. The LNF group included 163 patients and the LT group included 43 patients. Global quality of life was measured using the Medical outcomes short form 36 (SF36).ResultsThere were no differences in disease severity, except that the LT group had a higher incidence of esophageal dysmotility (37.2% 8.6%, p<0.05). Early outcomes were similar, with no perioperative deaths and morbidity occurring in 15 (9.2%) LNF and 5 (11.6%) LT patients (p=not significant). Long-term follow-up was available in 142 patients at a mean of 19.7 months. A greater number of LT patients required proton pump inhibitors (38 vs 20%) and were dissatisfied (21 vs 7%) with their surgery (p<0.05). SF36 physical function scores were better in the LNF group (85 vs 74; p<0.05). Significantly more (p<0.05) of the LT patients complained of dysphagia (34.5 vs 15%) on follow-up. There were no differences in the incidence of symptoms related to the gas-bloat syndrome. The observed differences between the LT and LNF groups did not appear to be related to differences in esophageal motility.ConclusionsShort-term results were similar for LT and LNF, but with longer follow-up, better results were seen with LNF. Even in the setting of moderate decreases of esophageal motility, complete fundoplication yields superior results.