How to perform minimally invasive surgery for esophageal cancer

Minimally invasive surgery for esophageal cancer is mainly performed through thoracoscopic or laparoscopic surgery, which removes the cancerous esophagus and reconstructs the digestive tract. Compared with traditional open-chest surgery, this surgery is less traumatic and has a faster recovery, but it also requires a detailed preoperative evaluation. The following is a detailed description of the surgical process and postoperative care.

1) Steps and methods of minimally invasive surgery

Minimally invasive surgery for esophageal cancer usually includes two methods: thoracoscopic assisted esophagectomy (MIE) and laparoscopic assisted surgery. The surgery is generally divided into three stages:

-The cancerous part of the esophagus is removed from the chest cavity, along with nearby lymph nodes to prevent the cancer from spreading.

- Laparoscopic retraction of the stomach is performed to lift and partially shape the stomach to replace the removed esophagus.

-The digestive tract is reconstructed through the neck or chest, the stomach is sutured to connect to the remaining esophagus, and the swallowing function of food is restored.

The process requires personalized adjustment of the surgical plan based on the patient's personal situation to ensure a stable surgical effect.

2) Preoperative preparation and adaptation conditions

Not all patients with esophageal cancer are suitable for minimally invasive surgery. It is usually used for patients in the early and middle stages, when the cancer has not spread widely and the patient's cardiopulmonary function is good. A comprehensive examination is required before surgery, including chest CT, PET examination, endoscopic evaluation, etc., to confirm the cancer stage and invasion range. Doctors generally ask patients to eat a light diet, avoid smoking and drinking, and improve intraoperative tolerance one week before surgery. The preoperative state has an important impact on the outcome of the surgery.

3) Postoperative recovery and precautions

After surgery, patients need to closely monitor their physical signs and focus on the recovery of digestive tract function. Immediately after surgery, intravenous nutrition is used for energy supply, and a few days later, liquid diet and small and frequent meals are gradually transitioned to reduce anastomotic pressure and promote wound healing. It is also necessary to avoid eating too hot or too cold food quickly. Patients also need regular follow-up after surgery to prevent recurrence and metastasis, and continue to observe their overall physical condition.

Minimally invasive surgery for esophageal cancer reduces trauma for patients and shortens hospitalization and recovery time, but it also requires the selection of authoritative hospitals and experienced doctors for surgery. Scientific postoperative care and regular follow-up can improve the patient's quality of life and prolong survival.