Outcomes of Standardized Protocols in Supercharged Pedicled Jejunal Esophageal Reconstruction

Background This study evaluated clinical and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) of long-segment supercharged pedicled jejunal (SPJ) interposition after implementation of a dedicated multidisciplinary pathway and technical refinements. Methods This study was a 6-year review of consecutive patients who underwent complex esophageal reconstruction with SPJ interposition. Clinical data were abstracted, and PRO data were collected prospectively by using the Upper Digestive Disease mobile application (UDD App). This standardized questionnaire comprised domains for mental and physical health, pain, dysphagia, reflux, hypoglycemia dumping, and gastrointestinal dumping symptoms. Operative refinements were comprehensively established by 2018. Results A total of 19 patients were included in the study, 15 of whom had a history of esophageal malignant disease and neoadjuvant chemoradiation. Most patients (18; 95%) underwent delayed reconstruction after diversion. There was no 90-day mortality or flap loss. Most patients (18; 95%) achieved an enteral diet. Seven patients (37%) experienced early complications (<90 days) requiring procedural intervention. The incidence of any medical or surgical complication was similar in the earlier (2015-2017) and late (2018-2020) cohorts, but aspiration events, surgical site infections, anastomotic leak rates, and median hospital stay (reduced from 15 days [IQR, 10-21 days] to 9 days [IQR, 9-13 days]) improved in the contemporary cohort. PRO data were collected in 14 of 15 (93%) living patients. Severe symptoms in at least 1 domain were reported by most patients (11; 79%) and improved over time. Conclusions Dedicated care pathways allow standardization of complex procedures, and targeted modifications may optimize recovery and patient outcomes. This cohort of patients may report severe symptoms that require ongoing monitoring and intervention.