Anastomotic Stricture After Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy.

Background: Despite improved outcomes, minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) continues to be associated with anastomotic strictures. Most resolve after a single dilation; however, some become refractory. Little is known about strictures after MIE in North America.

Modified French-window thoracotomy for exposure of the anterior thoracic spine.

Due to the limited exposure, technical challenges, and postoperative pain of thoracic spine surgery, open thoracotomy and video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The modified French-window thoracotomy approach with the aid of a thoracoscope is a useful technique for approaching diseases of the anterior spinal. This approach allows for specific exposure of the spine with a reduction in postoperative pain, morbidity, and mortality and avoids the limitations of VATS.