Double Tract Reconstruction Reduces Reflux Esophagitis and Improves Quality of Life after Radical Proximal Gastrectomy for Patients with Upper Gastric or Esophagogastric Adenocarcinoma

PURPOSE: The aim of the present study was to compare the difference between double tract reconstruction and esophagogastrostomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients who underwent radical proximal gastrectomy with esophagogastrostomy or double tract reconstruction were included in this study. RESULTS: Sixty-four patients were included in this study and divided into two groups according to reconstruction method. The two groups were well balanced in perioperative safety and 3-year overall survival (OS). The rates of postoperative reflux esophagitis in the double tract reconstruction group and esophagogastrostomy group were 8.0% and 30.8%, respectively (p=0.032). Patients in the double tract reconstruction group had a better global health status (p < 0.001) and emotional functioning (p < 0.001), and complained less about nausea and vomiting (p < 0.001), pain (p=0.039), insomnia (p=0.003), and appetite loss (p < 0.001) based on the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ-C30 questionnaire. Regarding the EORTC QLQ-STO22 questionnaire, patients in the double tract reconstruction group complained less about dysphagia (p=0.030), pain (p=0.008), reflux (p < 0.001), eating (p < 0.001), anxiety (p < 0.001), dry mouth (p=0.007), and taste (p=0.001). The multiple linear regression analysis showed that reconstruction method, postoperative complications, reflux esophagitis, and operation duration had a linear relationship with the global health status score. CONCLUSION: Double tract reconstruction could better prevent reflux esophagitis and improve quality of life without scarifying perioperative safety or 3-year OS.