Fluorescence Lymphography in Esophagectomy Shows No Chyle Leakage Benefit

New study evaluates indocyanine green fluorescence to prevent chyle leakage during esophagectomy, but results are mixed.

  • Chyle leakage incidence: 17% in the ICG group vs. 10% in controls (p = 0.163).
  • ICG influenced intraoperative decisions in 36% of cases, with successful thoracic duct visualization in 85%.

Surgeons may not see a reduction in chyle leakage, but ICG can aid in intraoperative management decisions.

  • Conservative treatment was used for all ICG group leakage cases vs. two re-interventions in the control group (p = 0.271).

Journal Article by Henckens SPG, van der Aa DC (…) Gisbertz SS et 4 al. in Ann Surg Oncol

© 2026. The Author(s).

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