Work

Left Pleural Conduit: An Alternative Route for Esophageal Reconstruction When the Anterior and Posterior Mediastinal Planes Are Inaccessible

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Restoration of gastrointestinal continuity after esophageal resection is most commonly achieved using a posterior mediastinal or retrosternal approach. In rare cases when neither plane is accessible, thoracic surgeons are faced with limited alternatives for reconstruction. We describe a case of esophagopericardial fistula after cardiac ablation that necessitated cardiac surgery and esophageal resection. With both the posterior mediastinal and retrosternal routes rendered inaccessible, we successfully constructed a gastric conduit routed through the left pleural space by using minimally invasive techniques. This report highlights the left pleural conduit as a viable alternative for esophageal reconstruction when standard approaches are not feasible.

Source: Annals of Thoracic Surgery Short Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.atssr.2025.10.014

Authors: Terrance Peng, Emily A. Cameron, Sha’Shonda Revels, Paul A. Toste

Institution: University of California, Los Angeles

Language: English

Topic: Esophageal and GI Pathology

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $975