Robotic esophagectomy with chest anastomosis: technical aspects and clinical outcomes

The use of robotic platforms for thoracic surgery, including esophagectomy, is increasing. A robotic-assisted Ivor Lewis esophagectomy with an anastomosis in the chest is a safe and feasible method of minimally-invasive esophagectomy. Further, this approach offers technical advantages over previous minimally-invasive techniques. In this review, we describe our technical approach to a robotic-assisted Ivor Lewis esophagectomy describing the abdominal and thoracic phases of the operation. We also review the most recent clinical outcomes of this approach and make comparisons with other techniques. Advantages and disadvantages to robotic esophagectomy are discussed.