Thoracoscopic enucleation of esophageal leiomyoma in prone position and single lumen endotracheal intubation.

introductionEsophageal leiomyomas are the most common benign tumors of the esophagus. Surgical enucleation is warranted for symptomatic patients. Thoracoscopic enucleation is the preferable approach for being less invasive by avoiding the discomfort and complications associated to larger thoracic incisions. The purpose of this study was to review our experience with enucleation of esophageal leiomyoma using a prone-position thoracoscopy technique.

methodsBetween January 2009 and July 2012, ten patients underwent resection of esophageal leiomyoma by thoracoscopy approach in prone position. Indications for surgical treatment were symptomatic tumors (dysphagia). All patients were followed postoperatively for at least 3 months with contrast x-ray of the esophagus. After single-lumen endotracheal intubation (nonselective intubation) in supine, patients were placed in prone position. Pneumothorax was kept at 6 to 8 mmHg using CO2 insufflation. A myotomy was performed over the tumor using hook cautery carefully protecting the mucosa from injuries. The myotomy was closed with continuous sutures.

resultsThe procedures were completed in the prone position in all cases, without any conversion. Mean operative time was 89.2 ± 28.7 minutes. Bleeding was negligible, and there were no intraoperative or postoperative complications. No intensive care unit support was needed for any patient. Chest x-ray in the first postoperative day showed no significant changes in any patient. The mean hospital stay was 3.2 days. Contrast x-ray of the esophagus was normal in all patients at 3 months postoperatively.

conclusionsThoracoscopic enucleation of esophageal leiomyoma is a feasible, simple, and safe procedure. Thoracoscopy in the prone position with CO2 insufflation allows the use of usual technique of intubation and also provides optimal operative field. The advantages of the thoracoscopic approach are less postoperative discomfort and lower risk of complications from open thoracotomy (especially pulmonary).