Long-term outcomes after hand-sewn versus circular-stapled (25 and 29mm) anastomotic technique after esophagogastrectomy for esophageal cancer

BackgroundAnastomotic stricture following esophagogastrectomy (EG) can lead to significant dysphagia, necessitating interventions such as endoscopic dilatation. These post-operative complications gain importance with the increased survival rate of patients after EG. This study aimed to assess the outcomes of both circular-stapled (CS: 25 and 29mm) and hand-sewn (HS) anastomoses after EG. MethodsWe reviewed prospectively accrued data from December 2004 to December 2014 identifying all patients undergoing EG for esophageal cancer. Immediate post-operative and long-term complications were noted. Primary outcome measures included anastomotic leak and stricture, dysphagia, and subsequent. ResultsA total of 142 patients were identified for analysis. The method used for reconstruction was noted: CS-EEA-25mm (n=30), CS-EEA-29mm (n=30), and HS (n=82). Demographics, tumor pathology, and tumor locations were similar in each group. All groups experienced similar rates of anastomotic leak, stricture, and dysphagia. Furthermore, post-operative dilations for symptomatic dysphagia were required in 3 (10%), 4 (13%), and 9 (11%) patients, P=0.91. ConclusionIn this cohort, the method of anastomotic construction had no bearing on the rate of complications after EG for the treatment of esophageal cancer. Furthermore, long-term need for dilations for symptomatic dysphagia was equal among all groups.