Fig. 2

a Schematic illustration of “Step 2” of the left recurrent nerve lymph node (LRLN) dissection. The trachea is rotated clockwise by the assistant from the 6th intercostal port. Working space for lymph node dissection could be created naturally, and the esophagus could be partially retracted posteriorly with the 4th intercostal port. LRLNs were retracted by the 1st robotic arm and dissected from the surrounding tissue by the 3rd robotic arm. b Actual operative scene of “Step 2” of LRLN dissection