Long-Term Outcomes of Laparoscopic versus Open Total Gastrectomy for Advanced Gastric Cancer: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis

Background: Laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG) for advanced gastric cancer (AGC) is a technically and oncologically challenging procedure for surgeons. Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the technical safety and long-term oncological feasibility between LTG and open total gastrectomy (OTG) for patients with AGC using a propensity score (PS)-matched analysis. Methods: Between 2004 and 2014, 185 patients (OTG: 127, LTG: 58) underwent curative total gastrectomy for AGC. PS matching was performed using the patients' clinicopathological factors, and comparisons were made based on surgical outcomes and long-term survival rates. Results: After PS matching, 102 patients (51 patients in each group) were enrolled. The total numbers of retrieved lymph nodes were similar in both groups. The numbers of retrieved lymph nodes around the splenic hilum were similar in both groups. A longer operation time was required for the LTG group than for the OTG group, but less intraoperative bleeding was observed in the LTG group. The overall morbidity and mortality rates of both groups were similar. Between the 2 groups, there was no difference in the 5-year overall survival rate or disease-free survival rate. Conclusions: For treating proximal AGC, LTG may be a technically and an oncologically safe and feasible method.