[Complications of surgical resection of esophageal cancer]

Esophageal resection has undergone refinements over recent years, with improved outcomes. However, in-hospital mortality remains above 10% in developed countries and is below 5% in only a select group of hospitals. Morbidity remains high even in high-volume hospitals. We reviewed risk factors in esophageal resection. Pulmonary complications occur mainly in older patients and in those with pulmonary dysfunction, especially %FEV1 or hypoxia. Liver cirrhosis, squamous cell cancer, low patient volume, and cervical anastomoses also increase complication rates. Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, which may be effective in squamous cell tumors, can also increase morbidity. The main cause of morbidity and mortality are pleuropulmonary complications. Also significant are anastomotic leak and esophageal conduit necrosis. A complex procedure such as esophageal resection is better served in specialized teams.