Perioperative outcomes after transition from conventional to minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy in a specialized center.

Background: Minimally invasive techniques are now increasingly adopted for the treatment of esophageal cancers. Benefits such as earlier functional recovery and less need for transfusion and intensive care stay should be balanced by a determination to avoid compromise to the oncologic integrity of the procedure, especially in the early phase of transition from open to laparoscopic surgery. This study aimed to compare primary outcomes including oncologic clearance, complications, and functional recovery between open and laparoscopic esophagectomy in a single center.