Abstract

Free jejunal graft autotransplantation for reconstruction of pharyngoesophageal defects was performed in 27 cases between 1983 and 1990. Of 27 cases, 26 patients who had carcinoma of hypopharynx underwent pharyngo-laryngo-cervical esophagectomy and interposition of free jejunal autograft. In one case who had a small and early-staged carcinoma of the cervical esophagus underwent resection of the cervical esophagus without laryngectomy and free jejunal autotransplantation in order to preserve the continuity of the alimentary tract. In the first 5 cases, the autografts interpositioned in the neck had single pedicle and were revascularized by one artery and vein, like the applications in the literature. Two fistulas and one necrosis were observed in these patients. In the following 22 patients a new model of free graft was applied. Jejunal graft prepared with double pedicles in abdomen was interpositioned in the neck with the microvascular anastomosis of the 4 vessels (two arteries and two veins) belonging to both pedicles. It was observed that the blood supply and vitality of the double pedicled jejunal graft was better comparing to the jejunal graft with single pedicle. Also, the feasibility of +4 degrees C continuous perfusion from the second pedicle protected the grafts from warm ischaemia. Only one case developed a fistula and no necrosis was observed in the 22 cases with double pedicled free jejunal autografts. These results suggested that application of double pedicled jejunal grafts reduces the risk of fistula and necrosis, despite the total operation time is 45-60 minutes longer.