Laparoscopic esophagogastrostomy using a knifeless linear stapler after proximal gastrectomy

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Proximal gastrectomy is used for upper gastric cancer but lacks a standardized esophagogastrostomy.
• Existing methods may lead to reflux and stenosis, impacting postoperative function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel esophagogastrostomy technique to improve postoperative function after proximal gastrectomy.
• To prevent reflux and stenosis in patients undergoing proximal gastrectomy for upper gastric cancer.

Main Methods:

• A knifeless linear stapler was used to create an esophagogastrostomy.
• The technique involved stapler insertion, incision, continuous suturing, and fundoplication.
• The procedure was performed on 12 consecutive patients.

Main Results:

• No anastomosis-related complications were observed in the 12 patients.
• The mean weight loss at 1 year post-surgery was 8.8%.

Conclusions:

• The novel knifeless linear stapler esophagogastrostomy appears feasible and safe.
• This technique may be a viable option for proximal gastrectomy in upper gastric and esophagogastric junction cancers.