Hybrid ICG-augmented laparoscopic and robotic distal esophagectomy and gastrectomy

Introduction In a time of growing surgical and technical innovations, indocyanine green (ICG) augmented surgery is adopted for several indications. Surgical treatment of gastric cancer by using ICG-augmentation is an object of modern treatment and investigations.

Aim We introduce a hybrid surgical approach for distal esophagectomy and gastrectomy for cancer of the gastroesophageal junction, combining the possible benefits of ICG-augmentation and robotic preparation.

Material and methods We performed ICG-staining of the tumor site via endoscopy. Therefore indocyanine green diluted with 20 % human albumin was injected in four quadrants around the expected tumor. The day after, a DaVici-laparoscopic gastrectomy/ distal esophagectomy was performed.

Results ICG-staining of tumor site and lymphatic tissue was detected to securely resect all colored areas.

Conclusions We introduced a possibility of a hybrid ICG-augmented laparoscopic and robotic distal esophagectomy and gastrectomy for tumors of the gastroesophageal junction.

Publication History

Article published online:
07 September 2021