Left transthoracic esophagectomy.

Left transthoracic esophagectomy remains an important option in performing esophagectomy. This is especially appropriate for malignancies of the distal esophagus and gastroesophageal (GE) junction. Likewise, resections in patients who have had prior surgery at the GE junction are easily performed through the left chest. The technical details of left transthoracic esophagectomy are described and illustrated.