VIDEOASSISTED TRANSHIATAL ESOPHAGECTOMY FOR CANCER

Blunt transhiatal esophagectomy is largely performed in selected cases of esophageal cancer according to the experience of Mark Orringer. We have recently performed eleven consecutive videolaparoscopy assisted transhiatal esophagectomies in order to help esophageal dissection and to avoid injuries to mediastinal structures. In our experience the ro utine use of laparoscopic assistance during transhiatal esophageal dis section improves the safety of this technique and lowers postoperative complications. The results of neoadjuvant treatments (radio-chemother apy) recently reported emphasize the role of transhiatal esophagectomy for cancer.