Thoracoscopic Esophagectomy with the Patient in the Prone Position

Abstract

We introduce a new technique of thoracoscopic esophagectomy with the patient in the prone position. The prone position allows mobilization of the esophagus and lymphadenectomy with only 5 trocars because the deflated lung does not block access. Stomach mobilization and gastric tube creation are performed by means of laparoscopy with the patient in the supine position. The esophagogastric anastomosis is an end-to-side anastomosis performed through a left cervical incision. This technique could reduce postoperative pain and morbidity.