Intrathoracic Anastomotic Leak after Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy: Non-Surgical Management

Esophagectomy is the best therapy for the patients with locoregionally advanced esophageal cancer, but carries serious risks of associated morbidity and mortality. Esophageal anastomotic leak is a severe post-operative complication with a rate of mortality that can reach 60%. Clinical presentations of esophageal anastomotic leaks varies from asymptomatic to severe sepsis and death. The prognosis depends on the duration to diagnosis and the severity of contamination. An anastomotic esophageal leak has a great impact on the length of hospitalization, morbidity, stricture formation and dysphagia. The management of intrathoracic anastomotic leaks include conservative, surgical or endoscopic treatment, but the indication between these options of treatment remains controversial. […]