The free jejunal graft for the reconstruction of the hypopharynx and cervical esophagus
Schultz-Coulon, H.J.; Berger, A.; Löhlein, D.
Handchirurgie Mikrochirurgie Plastische Chirurgie Organ der Deutschsprachigen Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Handchirurgie Organ der Deutschsprachigen Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Mikrochirurgie der Peripheren Nerven und Gefasse Organ der V. 16(3): 151-156
1984
ISSN/ISBN: 0722-1819 PMID: 6386625 Document Number: 227313
The free jejunal transfer for primary reconstruction of the cervical oesophagus after laryngo-pharyngectomy was described more than 20 years ago. Its popularity as a surgical method has increased in recent years with improvement in microsurgical techniques. Tumour resection and preparation of the jejunal graft are performed synchronously by two surgical teams. After suturing the graft into the defect the mesenteric vessels are usually anastomosed to the superior thyroid pedicle. In this series four patients are presented, in three there were no complications, in the fourth a fistula developed despite adequate vascularisation of the transfer. The jejunal graft has proved to be a good functional replacement for the cervical oesophagus. Experience in other series have shown the risks of necrosis, fistulae, stenosis and abdominal complications to be minimal.