Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy

Introduction

Minimally invasive esophagectomy has gained popularity over the past two decades. The procedural goal is to decrease the high overall morbidity of a traditional open esophageal resection. The entire spectrum of open esophagectomy techniques has been successfully replicated in a minimally invasive fashion.

Discussion

Esophagectomy remains one of the most technically challenging operations, and developing the skills necessary for minimal invasive esophagectomy is associated with a steep learning curve. Minimally invasive approaches show most promise for benign disease and select early esophageal cancers, but their role in more advanced cancer remains controversial due to lack of long-term results.

Conclusion

As minimally invasive esophagectomy matures, its true value in both benign and malignant disorders will become better defined.