Intraoperative fluorescence imaging in esophagectomy and its application to the robotic platform: a narrative review

Robotic-assisted esophagectomy is an approach to minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) that has demonstrated equivalent or improved outcomes relative to open and other minimally invasive techniques. The robotic approach also allows unique opportunities to improve complications following esophagectomy through use of enhanced visualization tools, including intraoperative fluorescence imaging. In this review, we summarize the specific uses of intraoperative fluorescence imaging as an adjunct tool during esophagectomy and discuss its application to the robotic platform.

A literature search was conducted via PubMed in February 2022 with the following keywords: esophagectomy, esophageal cancer, infrared, near-infrared (NIR) and fluorescence. Peer-reviewed academic journal articles published in English between 2000 and 2021 were included.

There is a growing body of literature evaluating the use of intraoperative fluorescence imaging in robotic-assisted esophagectomy. This includes assessment of gastric conduit perfusion, including feasibility, creation of the gastroesophageal anastomosis, and qualification of perfusion, along with lymphatic mapping and identification of critical anatomy. These tools are uniquely leveraged using the robotic platform to standardize and quantify key technical aspects of the operation.

Intraoperative fluorescence imaging provides the opportunity to assess perfusion and identify anatomy for more precise and patient-specific dissection and reconstruction. Among all the operative techniques for esophagectomy, robotic-assisted esophagectomy is uniquely suited to utilize these imaging modalities to optimize outcomes and minimize risk associated with esophagectomy.