Reconstruction of the pharynx and cervical esophagus using ileocolic free autograft

BACKGROUND: Advanced stage hypopharyngeal cancer is commonly treated by sur gery and radiotherapy. This report presents a technique using ileocolic fre e autograft as a single-stage procedure for voice and swallowing rehabilita tion after pharyngolaryngoesophagectomy my. METHODS: Digestive tract restoration is obtained by using the cecum and asc ending colon, while the last ileal loop, protected by the ileocecal valve f or food and liquid inhalation, is anastomized to the cervical trachea. Afte r abdominal harvesting, the ileocolic complex is transected, transposed, an d then revascularized in the cervical field. RESULTS: SIX patients underwent this operation successfully with recovery o f swallowing function and vocal performance within a short period of time, varying from 18 to 38 days. CONCLUSION: On the basis of achieved results, the ileocolic free autograft can be considered a good option for pharyngoesophageal reconstruction, offe ring as it does an immediate restoration of swallowing and voice function. (C) 1999 by Excerpta Medica, Inc.