Pharyngo-enteral anastomosis for esophageal reconstruction in diffuse corrosive esophageal stricture

Background. Diseases involving the entire esophagus usually require extensive surgical procedures to accomplish functional reconstruction. These procedures are extremely stressful for undernourished patients. We have utilized a simpler procedure for total esophageal reconstruction. Methods. This retrospective report reviews the experience in 8 patients who underwent esophageal reconstruction by pharyngo-colo-gastrostomy or jejunostomy without any resection of bony structures. Results. There was no operative or hospital death. Complications included anastomotic stenosis, transient leak from the ileal stump, and late enterocutaneous fistula, each in I patient. Laryngeal function was maintained without special treatments. After swallowing training for approximately I week, oral feeding was resumed. All patients have gained 7 to 21 kg at 35 to 67 months after surgery. Conclusions. Our surgical procedure is shown to be safe and effective in undernourished patients with diffuse esophageal stricture. (C) 2001 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.