A report in 300 consecutive patients for intrathoracic esophagogastic anastomosis and without leakage with GF-I type stapler

THIS paper repoted the experience with the use of GF-Itype slapler for intrathoracic esophagogastric end-to-side anastomosis in 300 consecutive patients with carcinoma of the esophagus or cardia from July 1985 through match 1988. ALL tumors in these 300 cases were resected surgically and intrathoracic esophagogastrostomy was performed with this stapler unit and there was no suture-line leakage at in any of the 300 cases. The operative results were satisfactory and encouraging. The leak at the suture line seems to be avoided by the use of this stapler. The technical aspects of using this stapler are emphasized. 12 of 300 patients have few postoperative complications, but none of them have beeu proved to be related to the stapling device. The instrument saves time and, createsa better anastomosis than that can be obtained by hand sewing. Thus, It seems to be rather versatile and its use is recommended. Hcwever, it should be used only after the surgeon has acpuired the skills to handle the stapler properly. The instrument appears to open a new way in thoracic surgery and esophagogastric anastomosis. It is an effective procedure to prevent the postoperative leak.