Minimally invasive abdominal and left thoracic approach for Siewert type II adenocarcinoma of the oesophagogastric junction: Novel technique for simultaneous combined use of laparoscopy and thoracoscopy

BACKGROUND: The optimal approach to resection for Siewert type II adenocarcinoma of the oesophagogastric junction (AEG) is still controversial. Our novel procedures and experience with a minimally invasive abdominal and left thoracic approach (MALTA) for Siewert type II AEG are described. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Intra- and post-operative outcomes for MALTA were assessed in seven consecutive patients with a preoperative diagnosis of Siewert type II AEG at Hokkaido University Hospital. RESULTS: None of the patients were converted to open surgery. The mean surgical duration was 434.0 ± 71.4 min, and mean blood loss was 20.7 ± 16.7 ml. On pathological examination, the median proximal margin was 24.6 ± 12.5 mm. No reoperations were needed, and there were no surgery-related complications. CONCLUSIONS: This novel technique shows considerable advantages, such as ensuring the proximal margin, intrathoracic oesophagojejunostomy and increased operative field exposure of the lower mediastinal area for Siewert type II AEG.