Novel Robotic Valvuloplastic Esophagogastrostomy Technique After Proximal Gastrectomy: A Safety and Feasibility Study

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BACKGROUND: Esophagogastrostomy is one of the reconstruction techniques after proximal gastrectomy, but reflux and esophagitis are significant concerns. We introduced a new robotic valvuloplasty technique (single-flap), taking advantage of robotic surgery to address these issues and simplify the technique, especially for tumors with esophageal invasion. METHODS: Between March 2022 and March 2024, patients who underwent robotic proximal gastrectomy with the single-flap technique were included. Based on the difficulty of the surgery, patients were divided into 2 groups: one with esophageal invasion requiring anastomosis in the mediastinum and the second group with tumors in the upper third of the stomach requiring anastomosis in the abdomen. RESULTS: A total of 22 patients were included: 13 in the esophageal invasion group and 9 in the upper stomach group. The median size of esophageal invasion was 2 cm (1 to 3 cm). The median operative time was 320 minutes (esophageal invasion 326 vs. upper stomach 280 min, P =0.51), with a median blood loss of 35 g (31 vs. 38 g, P =0.19). No postoperative mortality, anastomotic leaks, reflux symptoms, or pancreatic fistulas were observed. Eighteen patients underwent endoscopic evaluation, and no sign of esophagitis was detected. Five patients (22.7%) developed grade III strictures requiring endoscopic balloon dilation (esophageal invasion 32.1% vs. upper stomach 22.2%; P =0.96). CONCLUSIONS: Robotic proximal gastrectomy with single-flap valvuloplastic esophagogastrostomy is a safe and feasible option for gastroesophageal junction tumors with up to 3 cm of esophageal invasion.