415. STEP-BY-STEP APPROACH TO CERVICAL LYMPHADENECTOMY IN ESOPHAGEAL CANCER
Filipa Fonseca, Francisco Cabral, Paulo Ramos, Cecília Monteiro, Nuno Abecasis, Rui Casaca- Gastroenterology
- General Medicine
Abstract
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sByes2_wNgSmb8DW9BjNQknjN7HCXtf1/view
Background
Cervical lymphadenectomy is an essential component of the treatment of esophageal cancer. Over the last six years, our upper gastrointestinal unit has carried out 180 esophagectomies, with 20% of them involving 3-field lymph node dissection. According to our unit’s protocol, the procedure is indicated for the following conditions: supraclavicular lymph node metastases, upper thoracic esophageal cancer, and recurrent nerve lymph node metastasis. We aim to present a step-by-step approach to cervical lymphadenectomy.
Methods
Our upper gastrointestinal unit has implemented several learning protocols that aim to design the most efficient and effective training environment. The primary objective is to enhance the learning process and surgical performance while maintaining quality standards. One of the essential components of this learning environment is video coaching, which provides a powerful tool for demonstrating and deconstructing surgical procedures. In recognition of the importance of cervical lymphadenectomy, we have developed a video that is incorporated into our unit’s existing curriculum.
Results
As an essential component of our comprehensive teaching protocol, we have included a video demonstrating the systematic approach to cervical lymphadenectomy. It offers a clear and concise overview of the anatomical landmarks that must be identified during the procedure, as well as the steps involved and the main pitfalls that must be avoided.
Conclusion
Our unit is committed to a phased and systematized approach to learning based on steps through the deconstruction of complex procedures. The unit’s structured teaching protocol allows the acquisition of competencies that enable the performance of cervical lymphadenectomy in an effective and efficient way, without compromising patient safety. We believe that our step-by-step approach to cervical lymphadenectomy will be a valuable resource for healthcare professionals working in our upper gastrointestinal unit.