Indocyanine green fluorescence (IGF) can be used to predict anastomotic complications during minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE), although its use may be associated with an increased rate of anastomotic leaks and higher mortality. A study of 181 patients undergoing MIE found that patients who underwent IGF evaluation had a higher rate of anastomotic leak compared to those who did not. This suggests the potential predictive value of IGF but further investigation is needed regarding its physiological effects on the esophageal anastomosis.
Journal Article by Banks KC, Barnes KE (…) Velotta JB et 8 al. in Am Surg