[Reconstruction of the esophagus with a jejunal segment--case report].

INTRODUCTION

Portions of gastrointestinal tract may be used as microvascular transfers for reconstruction of hypopharynx and esophagus. Colon, jejunum and portions of stomach have also been successfully used. Intestinal transfer by revascularization was reported by Seidenberg in 1959, long before the development of other free tissue transfers.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

When an appropriate piece of jejunum is being selected for transfer, the important considerations are its shape and its vascular supply. Because of multiple curves of jejunum, it is difficult to obtain straight lengths longer than 12-15 cm without separating it from its mesentery at both ends.

DISCUSSION: Mucous production is very important in the first postoperative days. When edema decreases and patients can swallow fluids well, oral intake can gradually be increased to full fluids and eventual regular diet. It is important to monitor jejunum following its transfer. Anastomosis thrombosis and unrecognized gangrene of jejunum may cause serious neck infections.

CONCLUSION

Portions of gastrointestinal tract may be used as microvascular transfers for reconstruction of hypopharynx and esophagus. Intestinal transfer by revascularization was reported by Seidenberg in 1959. It is important to monitor jejunum following its transfer.