Thoracoscopic esophageal surgery

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Gastrointestinal Surgery
• Thoracic Surgery

Background:

• Thoracoscopic surgery is increasingly used for esophageal conditions, offering a minimally invasive alternative to open procedures.
• Established indications include resection of benign and malignant esophageal lesions, Heller Myotomy, and treatment of epiphrenic diverticula.
• Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) has become a significant approach in esophageal surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the established indications and applications of thoracoscopic surgery in managing esophageal diseases.
• To highlight the role of VATS in treating both benign and malignant esophageal pathologies.
• To emphasize critical surgical considerations, such as preventing esophageal perforation and leakage.

Main Methods:

• Review of thoracoscopic surgical procedures for esophageal benign and malignant lesions.
• Description of indications including Heller Myotomy, resection of submucosal/mural lesions, and epiphrenic diverticula.
• Discussion of thoracoscopic vagectomy and antireflux procedures.

Main Results:

• Thoracoscopic surgery is a viable approach for a range of esophageal conditions, from benign to malignant lesions.
• VATS enables the resection of various esophageal lesions and specific procedures like Heller Myotomy and diverticulectomy.
• Successful application of thoracoscopic techniques has been reported globally for esophageal carcinoma staging and resection.

Conclusions:

• Thoracoscopic surgery, including VATS, is a well-established and effective method for managing diverse esophageal pathologies.
• Careful surgical technique is paramount to minimize risks such as esophageal mucosa perforation and leakage.
• The procedure offers significant benefits for patients undergoing treatment for esophageal benign and malignant conditions.