Successful Endoscopic Dilation of Obstructions at the Thoracic Inlet and Jejunostomy After Esophagectomy: A Case...

Because of its lower risk of mediastinal complications, the retrosternal route is commonly used for reconstruction after subtotal esophagectomy. However, cases of postoperative gastric conduit obstruction at the thoracic inlet have been reported, as has passage disturbance at the feeding jejunostomy site. These obstructions are often managed by surgical treatment, but few reports have described endoscopic treatment.

A 75-year-old man with advanced mid-thoracic esophageal cancer underwent three courses of DCF chemotherapy, followed by robotic esophagectomy with gastric conduit reconstruction via the retrosternal route and feeding jejunostomy. Preoperative CT showed no thoracic inlet stenosis. On postoperative day (POD) 7, a barium swallow test revealed cervical esophageal dilation and narrowing of the gastric conduit due to external compression at the thoracic inlet. In addition, a passage disturbance at the feeding jejunostomy site developed later. Endoscopic balloon dilation was performed at both sites on POD 26 and 31, resulting in resolution of both obstructions. The patient resumed adequate oral intake and was discharged without the need for reoperation.

This case suggests that endoscopic balloon dilation is an effective, minimally invasive alternative to surgery for managing postoperative gastric conduit and jejunostomy obstructions after esophagectomy.