A uniform approach for esophagectomy with or without thoracotomy.
In patients with carcinoma of the esophagus, it is advisable to perform a total esophagectomy. We prefer a cervico-abdominal procedure and use the stomach to reconstruct the alimentary tract. Sometimes the operation needs to be extended with a right-sided thoracotomy. We have used this method of positioning and draping successfully in more than 70 patients in the last two years. This method enables us to perform a three stage operation if necessary without repositioning the patient and renewed preparation of the operative field.
de Graaf
P W
PW
Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Idenburg
F J
FJ
Obertop
H
H
D004938:Esophageal Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D016629:Esophagectomy / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D016683:Supine Position; D013908:Thoracotomy