Esophago-jejunal anastomosis with open approach using the parachute technique to prioritize safety after resection of esophagogastric junction cancer.

Background: The appropriate extent of resection for esophagogastric junction cancer and the method of surgical approach remain controversial. This study aimed to assess the safety and outcomes of the parachute technique, which is an open transhiatal reconstruction method that facilitates stable reconstruction.

Materials and methods: The surgical outcomes of 20 consecutive patients who underwent open lower- esophagogastrectomy for EGJ cancer at Kitasato University Hospital from June 2019 to July 2023 were retrospectively reviewed.

Surgical procedure (parachute technique): The esophagus was transected, and a purse-string suture was placed at the stump. Then, a fixing string was placed. Hence, the mucosa, muscular layer, and adventitia, including the string of the purse-string suture, were not displaced. By placing approximately 10 stay sutures around the whole esophageal stump, the esophageal stump can be opened to the maximum diameter. Then, insert the anvil head into the esophagus lumen while laying it sideways, and it can be put on smoothly without stress.

Results: In total, there were 17 and 3, male and female patients, respectively. The median esophageal invasion length was 12.5 (0-30) mm. One patient presented with cStage I EGJ cancer, four with cStage II, 14 with cStage III, and one with cStage IV. In terms of postoperative complications, three (15%) patients developed grade II intra-abdominal fluid correction according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. However, none of the patients presented with anastomotic leakage.

Conclusions: The parachute technique can be a safe and effective reconstruction technique as it does not cause anastomotic leakage.