Modified technique of stapled esophagojejunostomy without a purse-string suture

Area of Science:

• Surgical Oncology
• Gastrointestinal Surgery

Background:

• Esophagojejunostomy is crucial after total gastrectomy.
• Traditional purse-string suture placement is technically challenging and time-consuming.
• Improper suture placement risks anastomotic breakdown and complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a modified technique for stapled esophagojejunostomy without a purse-string suture.
• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of this simplified approach.

Main Methods:

• A modified stapled esophagojejunostomy technique was developed, omitting the purse-string suture.
• The technique was applied to 35 patients undergoing total gastrectomy, including 4 with extended procedures.
• Data on procedural difficulty and anastomotic complications were collected.

Main Results:

• The modified technique was successfully implemented in 35 patients.
• Only one patient experienced a minor difficulty due to stapler malfunction.
• No instances of anastomotic leak were observed in the study cohort.

Conclusions:

• The modified stapled esophagojejunostomy without a purse-string suture simplifies the procedure.
• This technique enhances safety and ease of performance in patients undergoing total gastrectomy.
• It effectively prevents anastomotic leaks, improving patient outcomes.