Jejunostomy after esophagectomy

Esophageal resection is indicated most often for treatment of localized esophageal cancer and Barrett's esophagus with high grade dysplasia. Despite the improved techniques utilized for resection, Karl and colleagues report esophagectomy continues to be associated with a 30-day mortality of 2.1% and a 3-year survival of 29.6%. Overall, 29% of patients experience complications such as anastomotic leaks (3.5%) and pulmonary complications (19%). Approximately 58% of patients with esophageal cancer present with significant weight loss. These patients often have nutritional deficiencies due to the obstructive nature of the tumor and the catabolic effects of the malignancy. Poor preoperative nutritional status may increase the risk of postoperative complications and therefore nutritional support is a treatment modality that may directly impact outcomes.