Perioperative Perfusion Measurement - a Feasibility and Usability Study

This study will investigate a new method to assess tissue perfusion during surgery for esophageal cancer. When a tumor in the distal esophagus is removed, the ends of the esophagus and the stomach must be reconnected by an anastomosis. An optimal perfusion is essential to ensure a good healing of the anastomosis. If anastomotic leakage occurs, it may prolong hospital stay, increase the risk of serious complications and death, delay start-up of chemotherapy and worsen the long-term survival prognosis. During the operation the blood supply to the ends of the esophagus and stomach will be assessed in different ways; The traditional where the surgeon looks and feels on the tissue, and newer methods with an indocyanine green and cameras that illuminate the tissue with near-infrared light. The surgeon will assess whether these methods change the decision on where the ends should be sewn together.