Preventing and localizing esophagogastric anastomosis leakage by sleeve-wrapping of the pedicled omentum

AIM: To develop a technique of sleeve-wrapping the pedicled omentum around the esophagogastric anastomosis for preventing and localizing leakage.METHODS: This study includes data from 86 patients who were diagnosed with esophageal cancer and underwent the technique of sleeve-wrapping the pedicled omentum around esophagogastric anastomosis after esophagectomy between November 2011 and July 2013. The early complications that occurred during follow-up were analyzed.RESULTS: Postoperative complications included pulmonary complications (13/86; 15.1%) and abdominal or thoracic wound infection (3/86; 3.5%). Complications that occurred during follow-up included one case of anastomosis leakage (limited by omentum; 1.2%) and five case of anastomosis stricture (5.8%). No deaths occurred. All complications were resolved through traditional treatment. No additional surgery was needed.CONCLUSION: Sleeve-wrapping of the pedicled omentum around esophagogastric anastomosis after esophagectomy is safe and effective for preventing and localizing anastomosis leakage without increasing anastomosis stricture.