Improved Surgical Outcomes with Thoracic Duct Visualization

Patent blue injection enhances intraoperative thoracic duct visualization during esophagectomy. In a pilot trial, the duct was visualized in 60% of patients, leading to significantly shorter operative times, fewer complications, and shorter hospital stays compared to controls. Although chyle leak rates did not significantly differ, this simple method shows promise for improving surgical outcomes in minimally invasive esophagectomy.