Comparison of Postoperative Outcomes of Hand-Sewn Versus Stapled Esophago-Jejunal Anastomosis during Total Gastrectomy

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Surgical Oncology, GIT Surgical Oncology Unit, National Cancer Instuite, Cairo University, Caitro, Egypt

10.21608/asjs.2025.400943.1216

Abstract

Introduction: The optimal technique for esophagojejunal anastomosis following total gastrectomy remains
debated.
Aim of work: This study compares perioperative outcomes and postoperative complications between stapled and
hand-sewn anastomosis techniques.
Patients and methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 102 patients who underwent
esophagojejunal anastomosis after total gastrectomy. Patients were divided into two groups: stapled anastomosis
(n = 44) and hand-sewn anastomosis (n = 58). Key parameters analyzed included operative time, intraoperative
blood loss, hospital stay duration, time to oral intake, postoperative complications (leakage, stricture, infection),
recurrence, and mortality. Statistical comparisons were performed to assess significant differences.
Results: Stapled anastomosis was associated with significantly shorter operative time (180.2 ± 14.8 vs. 230.4 ±
8.6 minutes, p < 0.05) and reduced intraoperative blood loss (170.3 ± X vs. 240.4 ± X mL, p < 0.05). Hospital stay
was shorter in the stapled group (10–13 vs. 15–18 days, p < 0.05), and oral feeding was initiated earlier (7–9 vs.
9–11 days, p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed in anastomotic leaks, infections, or pneumonia. A
slightly higher, though non-significant, rate of anastomotic stricture was noted in the stapled group. Mortality and
recurrence rates were comparable between groups.
Conclusion: Stapled esophagojejunal anastomosis offers advantages in operative time, blood loss, and recovery
without increasing major complications. Despite a non-significant rise in stricture rates, overall outcomes support
its use in clinical practice. Further randomized studies are warranted to validate long-term oncologic safety.

Keywords

Main Subjects