[Cervical esophago-visceral anastomosis with an endoscopic linear stapler. Note on a surgical technique]

The incidence of anastomotic fistula in the neck after esophagectomy and esophagogastroplasty may be as high as 30%; the incidence of anastomotic stenosis may be as high as 10%. To avoid these potential and sometimes serious complications, the authors describe a partially mechanical esophago-visceral anastomosis. The esophageal stump is brought near the anterior wall of the transposed stomach. A small gastrotomy is performed. An endoscopic linear stapler is then inserted in the esophageal and gastric lumen, and fired. The anterior wall of the anastomosis is fashioned with a running suture.