Fluorescence Image-Based Evaluation of Gastric Tube Perfusion during Esophagogastrostomy

ABSTRACT

During esophagectomy and esophagogastrostomy, the prediction of anastomotic leakagerelies on the operating surgeon’s tactile or visual diagnosis. Therefore, anastomoticleaks are relatively unpredictable, and new intraoperative evaluation methods or tools areessential. A fluorescence imaging system enables visualization over a wide region of interest,and provides intuitive information on perfusion intraoperatively. Surgeons can choosethe best anastomotic site of the gastric tube based on fluorescence images in real timeduring surgery. This technology provides better surgical outcomes when used with anoptimal injection dose and timing of indocyanine green.