Laparoscopic transhiatal resection of epiphrenic diverticulum

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and Surgical Innovation
• Minimally Invasive Surgery Techniques

Background:

• Epiphrenic diverticulum is a rare condition affecting the distal esophagus.
• Traditional surgical treatment involves left-side thoracotomy, which carries significant risks, especially for elderly patients with comorbidities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and safety of videolaparoscopic resection for epiphrenic diverticulum.
• To present the surgical technique, including myotomy and antireflux procedures, for this minimally invasive approach.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of three elderly male patients with epiphrenic diverticulum.
• All patients had ventilation limitations and prior chest interventions.
• Videolaparoscopic approach involving myotomy and an antireflux procedure was employed.

Main Results:

• Successful videolaparoscopic diverticulum resection in all three patients.
• No major intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed.
• One patient experienced a minor esophageal leak, managed conservatively.

Conclusions:

• Videolaparoscopy is a viable and safe alternative for epiphrenic diverticulum resection.
• This minimally invasive technique is particularly beneficial for high-risk patients unsuitable for thoracotomy.