Mediastinoscopy-assisted esophagectomy shows shorter operation times and fewer complications

A meta-analysis of 21 studies comparing mediastinoscopy-assisted esophagectomy (MAE) and thoracoscope-assisted esophagectomy (TAE) reveals MAE’s advantages in reducing operation times and intraoperative blood loss, while enhancing postoperative recovery due to fewer pulmonary complications. However, MAE increases the risk of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury and involves fewer lymph nodes dissected. Long-term survival rates remain statistically similar for both techniques, indicating distinct benefits and limitations that necessitate tailored surgical approaches based on patient characteristics.