Evaluating Esophagojejunostomy Anastomosis with Methylene Blue

ABST RACT Introduction: This study sought to determine the utility of the methylene blue test for evaluating esophagojejunostomy anastomosis. Materials and Methods: The study analyzed 65 patients with gastric cancer who underwent total gastrectomy and esophagojejunostomy anastomosis. The patients were divided into two groups. In Group A (n= 30), methylene blue was used to evaluate the esophagojejunostomy anastomoses, while in Group B (n= 35), radiological evaluation procedure was used. The presence or absence of anastomotic leakage in the two groups was determined. Results: The overall incidence of anastomotic leakage in the patients was 1.3% (2 of 65 patients). In Group A, leaks were seen in 1 (3.3%) of 30 patients, while in Group B, leaks were seen in 1 (2.8%) of 35. The methylene blue showed leakage in one case. Conclusion: Using methylene blue to evaluate esophagojejunostomy anastomosis appears to be a reasonable practice. This procedure is a suitable diagnostic test with a low complication rate that can be performed before reintroducing an oral intake.