Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy in Prone or Left Decubitus Position: A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial From A Single Institution

Thoracoscopic esophagectomy is routinely performed in two positions. The left decubitus position is the most commonly used position at most centers. However prone position is another alternative.

The left decubitus position is advocated for its the same position as the open procedure and easy to learn, as well as easy to emergent conversion to open thoracotomy .However, the disadvantage of this position is the need of lung retraction for better exposure and definitely one lung ventilation. They are regarded as potential causes leading lung injury.

Prone thoracoscopic esophageal mobilization has been advocated for its potential benefits of increased operative exposure, no lung retraction, avoid one lung ventilation, improved surgeon ergonomics. But it is difficult to make emergent conversion under this positon and not familiar with most thoracic or digestive surgeons. A longer learning curve may be needed.

A few publications have compared the two position with thoracoscopic mobilization of the esophagus in retrospective study of a small cohort. Until now, no prospective randomized study has been carried out in this field.