Comparison of Endoscopy and Esophagram for the Routine Evaluation of Anastomosis After McKeown Esophagectomy
About This Trial
This retrospective cohort study reviewed patients who underwent McKeown esophagectomy. All patients routinely underwent either endoscopy or esophagram for the evaluation of anastomosis on postoperative day 7. The initiation of oral intake depended on the status of anastomosis according to the assessment result of endoscopy or esophagram. All patients were followed up for six months after the assessment of anastomosis.
Who May Be Eligible (Plain English)
Original Eligibility Criteria
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Treatments Being Tested
Endoscopy
We first observed the residual esophagus to evaluate the mucosal color. We then reached the top of the anastomosis to obtain a full view of the anastomosis to exclude obvious leakage around that site. We next conducted a more detailed endoscopic examination at a close focal distance, circumferentially around the anastomosis. During this process, we utilized saline solution to meticulously remove white fibrin coverings and bloodstains to the greatest extent possible to ensure a thorough evaluation of anastomotic integrity. Finally, we inspected the staple line of the tubularized stomach to exclude gastric fistula and assessed the perfusion of the gastric graft. Endoscopic findings were assessed by an additional endoscopist and 3 esophageal surgeons during the examination, as well as by reviewing captured images or videos after endoscopy.