816. BRONCHIAL INJURY AND REPAIR DURING MINIMALLY INVASIVE ESOPHAGECTOMY

Abstract

Background Video Assisted Thoracoscopy (VATS) is the preferred approach to Esophagectomy thanks to the improved short term outcomes without any compromise on the oncological outcomes. VATS Esophagectomy is technically difficult and has a steep learning curve, with several potential complications. Description This is the video of a patient with early esophageal cancer (T1N0M0) who underwent VATS esophagectomy in the semi-prone position with capnothorax. There was an inadvertent injury to the membranous wall of the left bronchus which was sutured using monofilament absorbable sutures. The omentum was wrapped around and sutured to the anterior wall of the stomach tube, which reinforced the sutures once it was pulled up into the thorax. Patient had an uneventful postoperative recovery. Importance This video, apart from stressing on the need for careful dissection around the bronchial tree, shows that such an injury can be managed with minimal invasive techniques. https://1drv.ms/v/s!AmL6SI2dDeQVh9AzGMuncYi8GT3nIQ?e=IcjfNd