Approaches for thoracoabdominal oesophagectomy for oesophageal cancer: a network meta-analysis – study protocol

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Oesophageal cancer is the seventh most frequently diagnosed cancer and the sixth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Oesophagectomy remains the main curative treatment option. The effect of different surgical approaches (completely open, hybrid, completely minimally invasive and robot-assisted) on patients undergoing thoracoabdominal oesophagectomy (Ivor-Lewis's procedure) for oesophageal cancer is evaluated, focusing on overall survival, postoperative mortality and morbidity. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: A systematic literature search will be conducted in PubMed/Medline, Cochrane Library, Embase, Cumulated Index in Nursing and Allied Health Literature, ClinicalTrials.gov and International Clinical Trials Registry Platform using predefined search terms. A random-effects (network) meta-analysis using the frequentist framework will be performed. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: As this study is based on previously published data, no ethical approval is required. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations to inform clinical decision-makers (eg, surgeons, gastroenterologists). TRAIL REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42024564915.