A Review of Linear Stapled‐Sutured Intrathoracic Oesophago‐Gastric Anastomosis by a Single Surgeon Over Three Decades

This paper describes the technique of performing an intrathoracic linear stapled/sutured anastomosis between the oesophagus and gastric conduit. It analyses the outcome from a single surgeon working at two co-located hospitals. METHOD: A retrospective review of prospectively collected data was performed. The study includes 188 operations performed by a single surgeon (ASH) between 1998 and 2025. The mortality and morbidity for the series are analyzed and the technique used is described. RESULTS: The anastomotic leak rate for the 188 patients was found to be 3.2% with an inpatient mortality of 0.5% at 30 days and a mortality of 1.1% at 90 days. The overall stricture rate requiring dilatation was approximately 4.3%. These results from a low volume center compare favorably with international data. CONCLUSION: The linear stapled/sutured anastomotic technique is associated with a low anastomotic leak rate and mortality. The stricture rate is also low when compared to other series of oesophagectomy.