Brian E Louie1. 1. Section of Thoracic and Esophageal Surgery, Swedish Cancer Institute and Medical Center, Seattle, WA 98105, USA. brian.louie@swedish.org
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Esophagectomy is considered one of the most complicated, difficult to perform, and physiologically altering operations performed by surgeons. DISCUSSION: Outcome, not only depends upon surgeon and hospital volume but also involves a "supporting cast" of health professionals, such as physical therapy and ICU. The complementary skill set of the surgeon may also influence esophagectomy outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Young surgeons can perform esophagectomy with low mortality while their volume increases if they engage and involve all of the components in this paradigm.
INTRODUCTION: Esophagectomy is considered one of the most complicated, difficult to perform, and physiologically altering operations performed by surgeons. DISCUSSION: Outcome, not only depends upon surgeon and hospital volume but also involves a "supporting cast" of health professionals, such as physical therapy and ICU. The complementary skill set of the surgeon may also influence esophagectomy outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Young surgeons can perform esophagectomy with low mortality while their volume increases if they engage and involve all of the components in this paradigm.
Authors: John D Birkmeyer; Andrea E Siewers; Emily V A Finlayson; Therese A Stukel; F Lee Lucas; Ida Batista; H Gilbert Welch; David E Wennberg Journal: N Engl J Med Date: 2002-04-11 Impact factor: 91.245