P-OGC26 Learning curves in minimally invasive esophagectomy- a systematic review and evaluation of benchmarking parameters

Background Minimally invasive techniques are increasingly used in the treatment of esophageal cancer. The learning curve for minimally invasive oesophagectomy (MIO) is variable and can impact on patient outcomes. The aim of this study was to review the current evidence on learning curves in MIO and identify which parameters are used for benchmarking. Methods A search of the major reference databases (PubMed, Medline, Cochrane) was performed with no time limits up to February 2020. Results were screened in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies were included if an assessment of the learning curve was reported on, regardless of which (if any) statistical method was used.  Results Twenty-nine studies comprising 3741 patients were included. Twenty-two studies reported on a combination of thoracoscopic, hybrid and total MIO, 6 studies reported robotic assisted MIO (RAMIE) alone and 1 study evaluated both RAMIE and thoracoscopic esophagectomies. Operating time was the most frequently used parameter to determine learning curve progression (23/39 studies), with number of resected lymph nodes, morbidity and blood loss also frequently used. Learning curves were found to plateau at 7-60 cases for thoracoscopic esophagectomy, 12-175 cases for total and thoracoscopic/hybrid esophagectomy and 9-85 cases for RAMIE.  Conclusions Multiple parameters are employed to gauge MIO learning curve progression. However, there are no validated or approved sets of outcomes. Further work is required to determine the optimum parameters that should be utilised to ensure best patient outcomes and required length of proctoring.