Esophageal Washout with Povidone-Iodine Reduces Intraluminal Tumor Cells in Carcinoma Resection

Intraoperative esophageal washout with povidone-iodine solution significantly reduces the presence of free intraluminal tumor cells during esophageal and cardiac carcinoma resection. Neoadjuvant treatment decreases the likelihood of malignant cells in the esophagus. Repetitive washout decreases detectable malignant cells, with a significant reduction after 10 maneuvers. This novel, feasible procedure can help eliminate tumor cells and may be particularly beneficial for patients without neoadjuvant therapy.