New publication — transcervical esophagectomy with the da Vinci single-port system

Our work on a new technique for removing the esophagus has recently been published: through a bilateral approach at the neck, using the da Vinci single-port system.

The study was carried out as a feasibility study on an anatomical specimen, as part of an experiment at IRCAD — an exceptionally exciting and instructive experience for me. What fascinated me most was learning a technique that removes the esophagus without opening the chest and without one-lung ventilation.

For patients with previous chest surgery or impaired lung function this route may become significant. They are often not candidates for the classic approach through the chest.

Working on this publication gave me not only scientific experience but also considerably broadened my understanding of minimally invasive esophageal surgery.

I am delighted to remain part of Peter Grimminger’s team even after my return to Zurich, and to keep contributing to innovative projects. My heartfelt thanks go to all co-authors for the inspiring collaboration — especially to Peter Grimminger for his support and his trust.

— Dr. med. Olga Meier

To the publication:

Right-first bilateral transcervical single-port robotic esophagectomy: a cadaveric feasibility study toward a safer extrapleural strategy
Surgical Endoscopy, 20 April 2026 — open access