Intraoperative Right Colic Graft Ischemia, Followed by Delayed Oesophagoplasty Including an Ileo-Transverse Anastomosis and the Cervical Revascularisation of the Ileum: Case Report

The ischemic complications during the isolation of the substituting oesophageal graft placement and after its placement may lead to graft necrosis and to the need to find a different reconstructive procedure. The most frequent reports of graft necroses occur in the days following the reconstruction. We are presenting the case of a 27-y.o. with full dysphagia as a result of caustic stenosis, in whose case the oesophageal reconstruction was abandoned following the irreversible ischemia of the right colic graft during the vascular isolation, followed by right-side hemicolectomy and ileo-transverse anastomosis. 4 years post the ingestion of a caustic substance and 2 years post the right colic graft ischemic necrosis, we performed an oesophageal reconstruction using a pediculated, cervically revascularized, ileo-colic graft on the left colic vessels. The graft's particularity is that is formed from left and transverse colon and ileum portions, including the ileo-transverse anastomosis performed 2 years prior to the oesophageal reconstruction.

30-Day Outcomes Following Esophageal Replacement in Children: A National Surgical Quality Improvement Project Pediatric Analysis

INTRODUCTION

The optimal method of esophageal replacement remains controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate 30-d outcomes of children in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Project Pediatric (NSQIP-P) database who underwent esophageal replacement from 2012 to 2018.

METHODS

Demographics, comorbidities, and procedural technique was identified in NSQIP-P and reviewed. Thirty-day outcomes were assessed and stratified by gastric pull-up or tube interposition versus small bowel or colonic interposition. Categorical and continuous variables were assessed by Pearson's chi-square, Fisher's exact, and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to estimate the effects of procedure technique and clinical risk factors on patient outcomes.

RESULTS

Of the 99 cases of esophageal replacement included, 52 (52.5%) utilized a gastric conduit, whereas 47 (47.5%) involved small bowel/colonic esophageal interposition. Overall risk of complications was 52.5%, the most common of which were perioperative transfusion (30.3%), surgical site infection (11.1%), and sepsis (9.1%). Risk of unplanned reoperation was 17.2%, and risk of mortality was 3.0%. Risk for complications, reoperation, and readmission did not differ significantly between those who underwent gastric esophageal replacement and those who underwent small bowel or colonic interposition. Median operative time was shorter in the gastric esophageal replacement group (5.2 versus 8.1 h, P = 0.009).

CONCLUSIONS

Among children in NSQIP-P who underwent esophageal replacement from 2012 to 2018, the risk of 30-d complications, unplanned reoperation, and mortality was relatively frequent and was similar across operative techniques. Opportunities exist to improve preoperative optimization, utilization of blood transfusion services, and infectious complications in the perioperative period irrespective of operative technique.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Left colon interposition for esophageal reconstruction after perforation by metal blades ingestion: a case report

Esophageal reconstruction with colonic or jejunal segment is a second choice treatment when the stomach is injured or not adequate for use. These reconstructions, whether pedicled or as free jejunal graft, are technically demanding and they are associated with high rate of morbidity and mortality. Complications are mainly due to insufficient blood supply and therefore anastomotic leak or stricture and graft necrosis. We describe the case of a 51-year-old psychiatric man with diagnosis of esophageal perforation after ingestion of metallic razor blades for suicide intent. The patient was treated at an outside hospital with endoscopic removal of the blades and apposition of endoscopic clips, be cause of esophageal mucosal perforation. Nevertheless, he developed a septic status caused by mediastinitis. The patient underwent several interventions to solve the sepsis and after complete recovery he was referred to our Department for esophageal reconstruction. During surgery we found that the stomach was unavailable for reconstruction, therefore a left colonic interposition pedicled on the left colic vessels was performed through the retrosternal route. During the postoperative course the patient developed acute respiratory failure and suppuration of the cervical wound. The postoperative course was complicated because of the poor compliance of the patient due to his psychiatric disorder. He was discharged in postoperative day (POD) 42 in good clinical conditions, on oral-only diet. Colonic interposition through the retrosternal route after esophagectomy is a technically demanding procedure, associated with high morbidity and mortality, but it is a feasible option when the stomach is not available for reconstruction.

Fallback technique with circular stapler prevents anastomotic obstruction after esophagectomy: A case report of surgical approach

RATIONALE

While performing esophago-ileal anastomosis after esophagectomy with circular staplers, the mucosal folds of the ileum can complicate stapling and lead to obstruction, especially when the diameter of the circular stapler is equal or greater than that of the small bowel lumen.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 53-year-old man, presented with complaints of difficulty in swallowing for 2 weeks. Fifteen years previously, he had undergone partial gastrectomy for gastric ulcers.

DIAGNOSIS

The endoscopy showed that there was a large ulcer in the middle-third of the esophagus, about 28 to 32 cm from the incisors. Biopsy of the ulcer confirmed esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

INTERVENTIONS

We performed an esophageal replacement using the right colon with circular staplers, but anastomotic site occurred due to stacking of the mucosa ahead of the stapler. To revise the anastomosis, we inserted the stapler 2 to 3 cm farther into the lumen than the intended site of anastomosis, and then pulled it back and rotated the stapler to complete the anastomosis. Consequently, the obstruction was corrected.

OUTCOMES

With nearly 16 months' follow-up duration until now, the patient has no difficulty swallowing and has twice received chemotherapy, and returned to his normal life relatively.

LESSONS

In the event of potential anastomotic obstruction due to accumulated mucosa, the stapler fallback technique can be successfully used achieve patent anastomosis.

A case report of purulent pericarditis caused by Candida albicans: Delayed complication forty-years after esophageal surgery

RATIONALE

Candida pericarditis is a rare condition with high mortality. Risk factors include thoracic surgery and immunosuppression. We report a case of candida pericarditis which developed forty-years after esophageal reconstruction surgery.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 42-year-old female presented with nausea, abdominal discomfort, and chest pain, and was found to have a cardiac tamponade secondary to candida pericarditis. Her notable risk factor was colonic interposition done during her infancy for esophageal atresia.

DIAGNOSES

The patient underwent emergent pericardial window where 500cc of purulent fluid was drained. The pericardial fluid culture grew Candida albicans.

INTERVENTIONS

Esophagram did not show any visible leak and the patient improved with surgical drainage and antifungal treatment with Caspofungin. Caspofungin was continued intravenously for a total of four weeks and was switched to fluconazole.

OUTCOMES

An Echocardiogram performed one month after pericardial window revealed trivial pericardial effusion. Serum beta-D-glucan at the time was negative.

LESSONS

This report highlights that candida pericarditis infection could occur as a late complication of colonic interposition. We also demonstrate the utility of using an echinocandin in treating this entity.

Cervical Exenteration - Guidelines and Surgical Technique Principles

Introduction: Neoplastic invasion of the structures of the cervical region originating from a malignant tumour developed in one of the viscera of the throat may benefit from cervical exenteration. Defined as resection of the hypopharynx, cervical oesophagus, larynx and cervical trachea, exenteration has limited indications and is mandatorily accompanied by digestive tube reconstruction. The aim of this article is to highlight the indication, surgical strategy and important surgical stages illustrated by images from personal professional experience.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

Pharyngo-laryngo-oesophageal en bloc resection and radical cervical lymphadenectomy were followed by reconstruction via free jejunal transfer or colic pedicle grafting. Between 2000 and 2018 we have performed cervical exenteration in 25 patients with tumours originating in the pharynx, larynx or cervical oesophagus. In the cases of 5 patients in whom we did not obtain the oncological safety margin for oesophageal cancer we performed transhiatal pharyngo-laryngo-oesophagectomy. In these patients, we performed reconstruction of the oesophagus with colonic graft. In 20 cases we performed jejunal autotransplant. Results: We recorded 4 perioperative deaths, due to major arterial vessel haemorrhage (1 case), after jejunal necrosis (2 cases), and mediastinitis after oesophageal striping and colonic graft necrosis (1 case). One patient presented tumour recurrence at the level of the tracheal stump. Survival rate varied between 6 months and 4 years for the group of patients who presented for postoperative follow-ups. Conclusions: Cervical exenteration remains an option for tumour recurrence after radiochemotherapy or for obstructive airway or digestive tract tumours. It can be burdened by complications difficult to treat. The surgical team has to adapt its initial surgical strategy to the reality of the surgical field, both in terms of exeresis and in terms of types of pharyngo-oesophageal reconstruction.

The use of retrosternally placed colon in esophageal replacement

The authors present a review article evaluating the use of the colon as a replacement for the esophagus. We present current indications for both benign and malignant conditions and compare the advantages and disadvantages of the technical possibilities of esophageal reconstruction. The surgical technique utilizing the vascular bundle of the left colic artery and retrosternal location of the colonic conduit is discussed and documented in detail. Furthermore, we describe both early and late complications, including their management. We conclude that the colon is a safe technical possibility for esophageal replacement with satisfactory early and long-term results in cases where gastric conduit is not available. Key words: esophageal replacement with colonic interposition - esophageal replacement complications - colon interposition for esophageal replacement technique - coloplasty - esophageal replacement surgery.

Open Surgical Treatment of Secondary Aortoesophageal and Aortobronchial Fistula after Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair and Esophagocoloplasty in a Second Procedure

Aortoesophageal (AEF) and aortobronchial fistula (ABF) after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) are rare complications with catastrophic consequences without treatment. In this case report, we presented a patient with AEF and ABF after TEVAR successfully treated with endograft explantation and replaced by Dacron graft followed by esophagectomy and left principal bronchus repairing. We report a patient with AEF and ABF after TEVAR who was evaluated due to dysphagia and chest pain followed by hematemesis and hemoptysis. Endoscopic examination revealed lesion of the esophageal wall with chronic abscess formation and stent-graft protrusion into the cavity. Patient was operated on with extracorporeal circulation. AEF and ABF were confirmed intraoperatively. Endograft was explanted and in situ reconstruction of thoracic aorta was carried out with tubular Dacron 22-mm prosthesis wrapped with omental flap. After aortic reconstruction, esophageal mucosal stripping was performed with cervical esophagostomy, pyloromyotomy, and Stamm-Kader gastrostomy for nutrition. In addition, omentoplasty of the defect in the left principal bronchus was performed. To re-establish peroral food intake esophagocoloplasty was carried out 8 months after previous surgery utilizing transversosplenic segment of the colon and retrosternal route. In very selective cases, stent-graft explantation and in situ reconstruction with Dacron graft covered by omental flap followed by esophagectomy and bronchus repairing permit adequate debridement reducing the risk of mediastinitis and graft infection and allow a safe esophageal reconstruction in a second procedure.

Comprehensive swallowing exercises to treat complicated dysphagia caused by esophageal replacement with colon: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Surgical procedures for colonic replacement of the esophagus are most commonly associated with anastomotic stricture which cause dysphagia. In this report, we describe a rare case of a patient who demonstrated dysphagia resulting from an anastomotic stricture following esophageal replacement with the colon. All the treatments to dilate the anastomotic stricture were ineffective. To investigate the new treatment strategy for a case with complicated dysphagia, clinical dysphagia evaluations, functional oral intake scale (FOIS), videofluoroscopic swallowing study as well as high-resolution manometry were used to evaluate the swallowing function of the patient before and after treatments.

INTERVENTIONS

Comprehensive swallowing exercises included the protective airway maneuver, tongue pressure resistance feedback exercise, Masako Maneuver swallowing exercise, and the effortful swallowing exercise.

OUTCOMES

Comprehensive swallowing exercises showed good effect in the patient. The FOIS score increased from level 1 to level 7. The videofluoroscopy digital analysis showed that the pharynx constriction rate was 23% and 50%, before and after treatment, respectively. The data from the high-resolution manometry displayed that: the value of the velopharyngeal pressure peak was 82.8 mmHg before treatment and 156.9 mmHg after treatment; the velopharyngeal contraction duration time was 310 milliseconds before treatment and 525 milliseconds after treatment; the value of the hypopharynx pressure peak was 53.7 mmHg before treatment and 103.2 mmHg after treatment; and the hypopharynx contraction duration time was 390 milliseconds before treatment and 1030 milliseconds after treatment. The swallowing visualization illustrated that a bolus could normally pass through the anastomotic stoma, and the bolus leakage was no longer present. The patient was able to eat various consistencies of food independently, and we were able to remove the jejunum nutrient catheter before discharging the patient.

CONCLUSION

For patients with dysphagia caused by anastomotic stricture following esophageal replacement with colon, the swallowing function can be improved by enhancing the pharyngeal impetus when treatment using esophageal dilation is ineffective.

[Technical features of uretral intestinoplasty. Part 3: laparoscopic ileo- and appendiceal ureteroplasty]

PURPOSE

Presentation of the results and the technical features of the laparoscopic intestinal and appendicular ureteroplasty.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From 2001 to 2015, intestinal and appendicular ureteroplasty was performed in 103 patients. ileum was used for the replacement of ureteral defects in 78 (75.7%) patients, appendix - in 21 (20.4%), and colon - in 4 (3.9%). In 10 (9.7%) cases, the surgery was performed laparoscopically. Among them, 7 patients underwent ileoureteroplasty (6 - laparoscopic ileoureterocystoanastomosis, 1 - right-sided laparoscopic ileoureterocystoanastomosis by Yang-Monti) and 3 patients underwent appendiceal ureteroplasty. In one case, ileoureteroplasy was performed in patient with complete ureter duplication.

RESULTS

The period of follow-up varied from 2 to 14 years, and the average follow-up period was 8+/-5.8 years. Complications occurred in 8 (8.1%) patients who underwent open ileo- and appendiceal ureteroplasty. Among the 10 patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery complications were not observed. The length of postoperative hospital stay was significantly shorter in patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery (median, 6 days) than in patients who underwent open surgery (median, 12 days). The results of treatment in all patients were successful. There were no fatal outcomes.

CONCLUSION

The use of endovideosurgery for intestinal and appendicular ureteroplasty reduces surgical injury and reduces the length of hospital stay. However, there are not enough publications on this issue available in modern literature. To date, there are few number of operations performed, and it is not allow to consider the findings and conclusions as statistically significant.

[Early complications with colon esophageal substitution for children via retrosternal]

OBJECTIVE

To describe the early complications of esophageal replacement with colon in children.

METHODS

Descriptive cross-sectional study from 2005 to 2011 in pediatric patients diagnosed with alkali intake, esophageal atresia or esophageal injury traumatic esophageal replacement handled via retrosternal colon. Descriptive statistical analysis using SPSS 20.0.

RESULTS

We included 19 esophageal replacements, age seven (4-15), 13 (68%) male and six (31%) female. Initial diagnosis of ingestion of caustic 13 patients (68%) and type III esophageal atresia six cases (32%). Of the six esophageal atresia, four(66%) had dehiscence plasty, one (17%) long-gap atresia and type 1 (17%) esophageal perforation by dilatation. The segment of transverse colon was used in eight (42%), transverse/descending seven (36%), ascending/transverse three (15%), and descending colon one (5%). Early complications were pneumothorax one patient (5%), pneumonia three (15%), sepsis three (15%), intestinal obstruction due to adhesions two (10%), intussusception one (5%), cervical fistula three (15%). One death from sepsis (5%) at four days after surgery.

DISCUSSION

Esophageal replacement with colon is a good alternative for esophageal replacement; the most frequent early complications were cervical fistula, pneumonia, and sepsis.

A retrospective study of anastomotic leakage between patients with and without vascular enhancement of esophageal reconstructions with colon interposition: Thammasat University Hospital experience

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leakage is a common complication after operative reconstruction with colon interposition in corrosive esophageal injury patients. Because the underlying causes are ischemic in nature, vascular enhancement would resolve this complication.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the incidence of anastomotic leakage between patients with and without vascular enhancement of esophageal reconstructions with colon interposition.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective comparative study between patients with and without vascular enhancement during corrosive esophageal reconstructions with colon interposition in Thammasat University Hospital from January 2004 to December 2012.

RESULTS

Twenty-five adult patients who received esophageal reconstructions with colon interposition for corrosive esophageal injury were included in this study. Eleven of these patients also received vascular enhancement (classified as the "with vascular enhancement" group) during the reconstruction, whereas the remaining 14 patients did not (classified as the "without vascular enhancement" group). There was no significant difference in baseline characteristics of the patients between the two groups (i.e., sex, age, and preoperative hematocrit and serum albumin levels). There was also no significant difference in the leakage rate between the two groups: 35.7% (5/14) and 9% (1/11) in the without and with vascular enhancement groups, respectively (p = 0.180). However, in the "with vascular enhancement" group, the operative time was significantly longer (7.8 hours vs. 6.4 hours; an additional 1.4 hours), whereas length of hospital stay was shorter (18.3 days vs. 28.1 days; reduced by 9.8 days) compared with the other group.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who received vascular enhancement along with colon interposition had a lower incidence of anastomotic leakage; however, there was no significant difference between the two groups in this study. Thus, further studies with a large sample size should be conducted in this regard.

Postoperative functional result and quality of life after oesophageal reconstruction based on the type of cervical anastomosis

INTRODUCTION

The keystone of the rate of postoperative complications and functional outcome in oesophageal reconstruction is the technique method of performing cervical anastomosis.Despite new technologies and improved technique in specialized centres, post-anastomosis complications have not significantly improved.

PURPOSE

The goal of our study is to analyse the causes that make anastomosis with the oesophagus hypopharynx a particular case. If anatomical and morphological aspects cannot be adjusted (poor histological structure and vascularity etc.), some important elements for performing a good anastomosis can be identified and corrected.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Between 1981-2014, 195 oesophageal reconstructions were performed in our clinic. Our study involved an analysis of 72 cases (2000-2014), based on a statistical evaluation by Kaplan-Meier method that considered as eries of factors (oesophagus hypopharynx as anastomotic partner, stomach, jejuno-ileum, colon as visceral partner,pharyngotomy type, T-L, T-T, L-L, L-T type anastomosis,number of anastomotic layers). RESULTS were compared with those obtained by standard clinical and laboratory investigation,analysing the post-therapeutic outcome using three criteria (clinical aspects of swallowing, barium swallow and endoscopy) and by subjective assessment by each patient of his her state and complaints, with effects on long-term functional outcome (dysphagia, reflux, pain, asthenia, weight loss, hoarseness).

RESULTS

Statistical analysis determined that only some of the analysed factors proved to be valuable. The higher the level of the anastomosis, the more intense the impairment of the digestive function. The jejunum and left colon proved to bemost effective anastomotic partners. The best method for implantation seems to be T-T or T-L and the number of anastomosis layers has no influence on postoperative outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Acquired data can influence to some extent the operatory technique, with a lower complication rate.Unfortunately, laborious technical aspects and specific anatomical limitations make this goal difficult to achieve.

[Complex case with respiratory, endocrine and digestive manifestations--late complications after a colic replacement of the esophagus for lye ingestion]

Long term complications after colic replacement of the esophagus are well known and their managment is known as being difficult, due to multiple associated comorbidities; we present the case of a 26-year-old patient with multiple late complications after a coloesophagoplaty for lye ingestion during childhood. The patient finally died despite all the eforts of treatement during a prolonged hospitalisation. We will try to analyse the key moments on patient's evolution and discuss other possible options in this case.

[Efficacy of the use of remnant stomach in esophagoplasty]

In the period from 2001 till 2010 there were 117 extirpations of the oesophagus with single-stage plasty of the stomach in 94 patients and plasty of the large intestine--in 23 cases. Gastric resections were performed earlier in 50 (42.7%) patients, though gastrectomy took place in 39 (78%) patients. The accumulated experience allowed making an assessment of immediate and long-term results of esophagoplasty to patients, who had earlier the gastric resection. The incompetence of oesophagogastric anastomosis was noted in 2 times more frequent and the formation of stenosis of given anastomosis in 3 times more often. I order to improve the results of esophagoplasty, the method of serousmyotomy was applied in the cases of remnant stomach.

[Thoracolaparoscopic simultaneous operations on esophagus]

Extirpation or subtotal resection of esophagus was performed in 14 patients by using of thoracolaparoscopic technique in terms from November 2011 to March 2014. The mean patients' age was 56 years old (27-67 years). In 10 patients indications for surgery included benign esophagus diseases such as cardiospasm stage IV (2 cases), peptic stricture (5 cases) and burn stricture (3 cases). 4 patients were operated for esophagus cancer including middle one-third cancer in 1 patient, lower one-third cancer in 3 cases. 10 patients underwent extirpation of esophagus with peristaltic gastric tube plasty. 1 patient had esophagus substituted by segment of the left colon. Esophageal anastomoses were formed on the neck (interrupted sutures were applied in 7 patients; staplers - in 3 cases). Lewis operation with intrapleural esophageal-gastric anastomosis forming was performed in 3 patients. The mean surgery duration was 579 minutes (305-710 min), mean blood loss - 141 ml (from 50 to 300 ml). Postoperative period had not complications in 8 of 14 patients. Different complications including partial failure of the anastomosis on the neck (5 cases), intrapleural anastomosis failure (1 case) were observed in 6 patients. Partial failure of the anastomosis on the neck was treated by using of therapy. All patients recovered. Patient with intrapleural anastomosis failure required additional surgery which included uncoupling of anastomosis, esophagostomy on the neck and gastrostomy forming. This patient died from recurrent myocardial infarction. Thus the authors consider that complete thoracolaparoscopic technique provides precise preparation of esophagus and stomach, adequate lymphadenectomy with minimal blood loss and operative trauma. The results after these operations are comparable with those after open interventions. Thoracolaparoscopic simultaneous operations must be applied in clinics having sufficient experience in esophagus surgery and thoracolaparoscopic technique.

Isoperistaltic left colic graft interposition via a retrosternal approach for esophageal reconstruction in patients with a caustic stricture: mortality, morbidity, and functional results

PURPOSE

To report our results of treating esophageal caustic stricture with an isoperistaltic left colic graft interposed via a retrosternal route.

METHODS

We reviewed 70 patients who underwent substernal left colon interposition, performed retrosternally, for an esophageal caustic stricture, between January, 1999 and December, 2011.

RESULTS

The median operative time in this series was 3 h. A pharyngoplasty was performed in 10 patients (14.28 %), the thoracic inlet was found to be enlarged in 33 patients (47.1 %), and posterior cologastric anastomosis was performed in 58 patients (82.8 %). Two patients (2.8 %) died. Minor and major postoperative complications developed in 28 patients (40 %), including graft ischemia in 2 (2.8 %) and cervical anastomotic leakage in 14 (20 %). Five patients (7.14 %) developed a cervical anastomotic stricture. The functional results were satisfactory.

CONCLUSION

Retrosternal isoperistaltic left colic transplant interposition is an excellent long-term replacement for an esophageal caustic stricture. If performed by experienced surgeons, this procedure is effective for esophageal reconstruction.

Caustic injury of the upper gastrointestinal tract: A comprehensive review

Prevention has a paramount role in reducing the incidence of corrosive ingestion especially in children, yet this goal is far from being reached in developing countries, where such injuries are largely unreported and their true prevalence simply cannot be extrapolated from random articles or personal experience. The specific pathophysiologic mechanisms are becoming better understood and may have a role in the future management and prevention of long-term consequences, such as esophageal strictures. Whereas the mainstay of diagnosis is considered upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, computed tomography and ultrasound are gaining a more significant role, especially in addressing the need for emergency surgery, whose morbidity and mortality remains high even in the best hands. The need to perform emergency surgery has a persistent long-term negative impact both on survival and functional outcome. Medical or endoscopic prevention of stricture is debatable, yet esophageal stents, absorbable or not, show promising data. Dilatation is the first therapeutic option for strictures and bougies should be considered especially for long, multiple and tortuous narrowing. It is crucial to avoid malnutrition, especially in developing countries where management strategies are influenced by malnutrition and poor clinical conditions. Late reconstructive surgery, mainly using colon transposition, offers the best results in referral centers, either in children or adults, but such a difficult surgical procedure is often unavailable in developing countries. Possible late development of esophageal cancer, though probably overemphasized, entails careful and long-term endoscopic screening.

Quality of life of patients with esophageal replacement for congenital and acquired esophageal anomalies

AIM

To assess the long-term quality of life (QoL) and symptoms experienced by patients who underwent esophageal replacement for congenital and acquired children esophageal pathology.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study group comprised 71 patients divided into 2 groups, group I: 34 patients who underwent gastric tube esophagoplasty, and group II: 37 patients who underwent colic tube esophagoplasty. QoL score was assessed using a 24-item original questionnaire covering aspects of eating, disease-specific symptoms, physical and psychological development, and social integration.

RESULTS

QoL scores based on patient and parental responses were very close. Long-term postoperative functional outcomes for the two groups were comparable.

CONCLUSIONS

The QoL scores and general life status were not influenced by the used technique and this pathology should be approached according to the particularity of each case and surgeon's personal experience and preference.

Cell reactions in gastric tube and colon transplants in stenoses of esophageal anastomosis

We studied morphological and cell characteristics of stenosis of esophagogastric and esophagocolonic anastomosis. It was demonstrated that sclerogenesis in the gastric transplants is associated with hypertrophy of leiomyocytes, hyperelastosis foci, degenerative and atrophic modifications of the glands, and foveolar cell hypersecretion. In colonic transplant, collagen synthesis predominates in the esophageal anastomosis and can be associated with proliferation of blood capillaries; hyperplastic reactions of leiomyocytes and elastic fibers are minor, colonocytes exhibit high secretory activity. Differences in the cell reactions of the transplants reflect complex character of the formation of esophageal anastomosis stenosis.

The vascularization pattern of the colon and surgical decision in esophageal reconstruction with colon. A selective SMA and IMA arteriographic study

INTRODUCTION

No matter the reconstructive technique, the fundamental concepts in visceral reconstruction have as main grounds the mandatory vascular support for the graft replacement. Individual vascular particularities can influence or even oblige the surgeon to choose a certain procedure. This is why the vascularization is beyond doubt the dominant factor in mobilizing the colon for reconstruction.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Our arteriographic study entails an investigation upon the vascularization pattern of the two main sources that participate in the arterial irrigation of the colon via the emerging vessels: superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and inferior mesenteric artery (IMA). We did not consider certain patients upon a specific criterion; also, we did not exclude any patients due to various reasons. We took into account 49 patients as study group, all of them having registered into the clinic for a reconstructive technique, throughout the years from 2000 to 2010. From 1981 to 2012 there have been 187 reconstructive techniques performed due to post caustic pathology. From a total of 49 patients, 11 had suffered major abdominal surgeries, 5 of which had had unsuccessful reconstructive attempts.

RESULTS

Out of the 49 patients on whom we have performed the exploration, arteriography showed a favorable situation for reconstruction in 31 of them. In the other 18 patients anomalies or atypical distributions were identified, in 5 of the SMA and in 13 of the IMA, respectively. Operative decision was modified in 22 patients. One important thing to note from the point of view of the segment to be moved: we had no graft necrosis in patients with preoperative arteriographic examination.

CONCLUSIONS

Due to the need for good mobilization, arterial ligations should be adjusted and modified depending on the particular vascular distribution, to maintain a sufficient blood flow in the marginal artery, in order to reach the colic sections and the straight arteries near them.

Recurrent cervical esophageal stenosis after colon conduit failure: Use of myocutaneous flap

A 53-year-old male developed cervical esophageal stenosis after esophageal bypass surgery using a right colon conduit. The esophageal bypass surgery was performed to treat multiple esophageal strictures resulting from corrosive ingestion three years prior to presentation. Although the patient underwent several endoscopic stricture dilatations after surgery, he continued to suffer from recurrent esophageal stenosis. We planned cervical patch esophagoplasty with a pedicled skin flap of sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle. Postoperative recovery was successful, and the patient could eat a solid meal without difficulty and has been well for 18 mo. SCM flap esophagoplasty is an easier and safer method of managing complicated and recurrent cervical esophageal strictures than other operations.

Evaluation and management of complications or functional problems at the recipient site after esophageal and voice reconstruction with free ileocolon flap

BACKGROUND

The free ileocolon flap has been considered a safe method of simultaneous restoration of swallowing and voice production; however, the management of complications at the recipient site and its impact on functional outcomes are lacking in the literature.

METHODS

We reviewed retrospectively all consecutive patients with combined defects of the cervical esophagus and larynx reconstructed with free ileocolon flap between July 2005 and December 2009 (follow-up of ≥18 months). Patients were evaluated during the follow-up period to judge the impact of revision surgery on functional outcomes. Complications were reviewed, and the appropriate management was reported.

RESULTS

Swallowing function was restored in 69% of patient; functional speech function was achieved in 59%. Fourteen of the 29 patients underwent revision surgery because of complications or to improve functions at the recipient site. The mean functional improvement after revision surgery was 1.0 point on the 5-point Likert scale for speech and 1.1 point on the 7-point Likert scale for swallowing (P < .01 each).

CONCLUSION

Continuous research over the last 10 years has allowed us to refine the technique and to make the outcome more predictable.

[Management of caustic esophagitis in children]

In children, caustic ingestion is due to accidents at home and inadequate storage of caustic agents. In emergency, it is useful to remove the soiled clothes, rinse the affected area, and prevent vomiting and feeding. Caustic ingestion (pH<2 or>12) induces burns of the upper gastrointestinal tract requiring esophagogastro-duodenoscopy between H12 and H24. Strong alkalis cause necrosis with liquefaction of the esophagus, penetrating deeply with a high-risk of perforation. Management of these children requires a specialized care center with an intensive care unit, endoscopic equipment, and a surgical team. Esophageal stricture is the main complication; no prophylactic treatment (steroids) is effective. Strictures occur after the 3rd week, and barium swallow should be performed by the end of the 1st month. Stricture are often multiple, long, and tortuous; endoscopic dilatation is difficult with a high-rate of perforation and a low-rate of success. In situ application of mitomycin C or injection of triamcinolone could reduce the recurrence rate of stricture. In recalcitrant or recurrent strictures, it is recommended to perform an esophageal replacement using a colonic interposition or a gastric tube. Endoscopy should also be performed 15-20years after caustic ingestion to screen for early neoplastic lesions. Prevention is very important for avoiding caustic ingestions. Information and education should be given specifically to the parents of toddlers; caustic products should be stored out of reach of children and they should not be kept with food.

Cardiac compression secondary to a massively dilated substernal colon conduit

With the growing success of surgical repairs of congenital defects previously incompatible with life, it is expected of these patients to live longer and experience the complications of these corrective procedures. Esophageal atresia is a congenital defect that occurs in 1 out of 4000 births and is oftentimes a surgical emergency in which colonic conduits are routinely used for esophageal reconstruction. Colonic conduit redundancy and dilatation are well-recognized late complications of colon conduit surgeries for esophageal reconstructions. We report a rare case of symptomatic cardiac compression secondary to a massively dilated substernal colon conduit occurring 44 years after the initial childhood surgery in 1964 with rapid reversal of hemodynamic compromise after conduit removal.

Similar outcomes after primary and secondary esophagocoloplasty for caustic injuries

BACKGROUND

The main purpose of the study was to report a comparative experience with primary and secondary esophagocoloplasty for caustic injuries. Secondary esophagocoloplasty is the main rescue option after graft loss, but data in the literature are scarce.

METHODS

The operative characteristics, postoperative course, and functional outcomes of 21 secondary and of 246 primary esophagocoloplasty operations performed for caustic injuries between 1987 and 2006 were compared. Intraoperative events requiring significant changes in the planned operative strategy, such as graft ischemia or necrosis, were recorded. Statistical tests were performed in both cohorts to identify factors predictive of postoperative graft necrosis. Univariate analysis was performed to identify factors predictive of functional failure after secondary esophagocoloplasty.

RESULTS

Operative mortality (5% vs 4%, p=0.56), morbidity (62% vs 59%, p=0.96), postoperative graft necrosis (14% vs 7%, p=0.16), and functional success (68% vs 70%, p=0.79) rates of the secondary and primary esophagocoloplasty operations were similar. Intraoperative graft ischemia at the time of secondary esophagocoloplasty was significantly associated with the risk of postoperative graft necrosis (p=0.015) and functional failure (p=0.046). At the time of primary esophagocoloplasty, intraoperative necrosis of the colon was the only independent predictive factor of postoperative graft necrosis (p<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Secondary esophagocoloplasty is a safe and reliable salvage option after primary graft loss in patients with caustic injuries. Delayed esophagocoloplasty should be considered if intraoperative colon necrosis occurs at the time of primary reconstruction.

[Application of colonic interposition in the digestive tract reconstruction after esophagectomy]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety of colonic interposition after esophagectomy.

METHODS

One hundred and thirty six patients with esophageal cancer underwent colonic interposition after esophagectomy in the Sichuan Tumor Hospital from October 1992 to October 2010. Clinical data of these patients were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

Out of the 136 patients, 118 grafts were transverse colon in clockwise peristalsis supplied by ascending branches of the left colonic artery. Twelve grafts were right part of transverse colon and ascending colon in clockwise peristalsis. Six grafts were left part of transverse colon and descending colon in counterclockwise peristalsis. All the 18 grafts were supplied by the middle colonic artery. The total perioperative complication rate was 26.4% (36/136), including anastomotic leakage in 15 cases, colon necrosis in 5 cases. The mortality was 12.5%(17/136), in which 5 patients died of colonic perforation, 4 died of colon necrosis, 4 died of severe lung infection after operation, 3 died of ARDS and 1 died of systemic infection of unknown origin. Anastomotic stenosis occurred in 2 patients, reflux in 2 cases, and 3 patients suffered from bowel dysmotility.

CONCLUSIONS

Colon interposition is a complex procedure with significant trauma, high morbidity, and mortality. However, it is a valid alternative to reconstruct the gastrointestinal tract when the stomach is not feasible.

[Application of esophagoplasty in cicatricial postburn esophageal stricture]

The results of the affected esophagus substitution, using a large intestine segment, in postburn stenosis in 42 patients were analyzed. Complete cicatricial esophageal impassability, impossibility or dangerous bougienage, rapid occurrence of the stricture recurrence, anamnesis data about perforation occurrence, presence of esophageal fistula have constituted the indications for the intervention performance. The best results were achieved while application of isoperistaltic retrosternal coloesophagoplasty, using left half of large intestine. The early postoperative complication was partial insufficiency of the neck anastomosis sutures and the late one--formation of its cicatricial stricture. Three patients died (postoperative lethality was 7.1%).

[Objective intraoperative estimation of state of the intestinal transplant prepared for placing into the perineum in experiment]

The work is devoted to experimental investigation and practical application of the objective intraoperative diagnosis method for the intestinal transplant state estimation, which is prepared for descendence to perineum, using modified pulsoximetric data analyser in environment of experimental modelling of abdominoanal rectal resection, resulting in determination of objective indices of the intestinal transplant vital capacity. The method of operative intervention in experiment on laboratory animals is adduced. The expediency of application of modified pulsoximetric data analyser in colorectal surgery was established.

Bloodless esophageal replacement in children with corrosive esophageal strictures--report of two cases

BACKGROUND

Esophageal replacement is major procedure with high risk for perioperative allogeneic blood transfusion (ABT), especially in pediatric patients due to nutritive deficiency, anemia, small body weight and blood volume. Autologous blood policy is particularly important in female children.

METHODS

We present treatment strategy with the aim of avoiding ABT, that have been applied in two female pediatric patients with caustic stricture of thoracic esophagus. The patients were 7 and 8 years old, with body weight 34 and 23.5 kg, respectively. Protocol was based on the stimulation of haematopoetic system with erythropoietin, iron therapy and preoperative autologous blood donation (PABD). In the first patient, with a history of previous retrosternal bypass esophagocoloplasty and extraction of necrotic colonic graft, delayed reconstruction--transhiatal subtotal esophagectomy and gastric pull-up with cervical anastomosis were performed. In the second patient, repeated ineffective dilatations of esophageal stricture were reason for retrosternal left colon interposiotion and exclusion of native esophagus.

RESULTS

No adverse events were attributed to preoperative blood donation period. No allogenic blood products were used during perioperative period. Both patients had uneventful postoperative course.

CONCLUSION

In specialized institutions for esophageal surgery, PABD with administration of erythropoietin and iron therapy, enable bloodless esophageal replacement, even in children.

[Esophageal replacement using large intestine--experience with 109 cases]

Use of large intestinal transplants in esophageal replacement is an uncommonly used alternative. The authors discuss its indications in benign, as well as in malignant disorders and, based on them, assign them into three groups. Based on historical data and their professional experience, they present reasons for the commonest uses of particular parts of the large intestine. They evaluate introperative, as well as long-term outcomes.

[Esophagectomy and colonic orthotopic transposition by video-assisted thoracoscopy (VATS)]

The esophagectomy and colonic transposition by video-assisted thoracoscopy (VATS), still not recommended as a technique of choice for the treatment of benign and malignant esophagus despite good results in hospitalization, morbidity and mortality. This case describes a 24 year old male patient who swallowed muriatic acid, causing severe injuries to the esophagus and stomach. Initially, he performed jejunal transposition which subsequently are causing progressive dysphagia, readmitted 2 years later. This time surgery is performed in 2 stages: (1) rise of the ascending colon and jejunum distal to oesophageal vasculature itself, by open surgery (2) esophagectomy and colonic orthotopic transposition by VATS and posterior hypopharyngeal anastomosis in colon anterior cervical region. Patient was discharged without complications and shorter hospital stay. Currently no evidence of dysphagia, improved nutritional status and ultimately better quality of life.

Adenocarcinoma arising in a colonic interposition following a total gastrectomy: report of a case

A segment of the transverse colon can be used for gastric reconstruction after a total gastrectomy. This report presents the case of a 68-year-old woman with primary adenocarcinoma of the colon in a segment used for reconstruction after a total gastrectomy. The interposed colon developed colon carcinoma 9 years after the gastric reconstruction. The possibility of a primary carcinoma arising in a gastric colon interposition must be considered when employing the transverse colon as a gastric substitute.

[Surgical treatment of non-tumorous stenosis of the esophagus]

Experience of different types of esophagoplasty at nontumours stenosis of esophagus at 61 patient is resulted. Possible variants of esophagoplasty are described by both a stomach and a colon, and also stages of implementation. The analysis of postoperation complications, probability of their origin depending on the method of esophagoplasty, possibility of prophylaxis is conducted. Good results are attained at 78.5% of patients, lethality make 3.3%.

[Development of scar cancer after subtotal oesophagectomy for corrosive injury]

INTRODUCTION

The incidence of cicatricial carcinoma of the scarred esophagus in patients with corrosive injuries is relatively high. Therefore, the necessity to resect the diseased oesophagus was raised as opposed to carry out a simple by-pass reconstruction only.

CASE REPORT

A 56-year-old female patient with a past medical history of lye consumption presented with a stricture of the esophagus. She underwent resection of the diseased esophagus with mediastinal colon interposition. 28 years after surgery the patient had symptoms of progressive dysphagia and loss of weight caused by scar cancer of the esophagus. After neoadjuvant chemo-radiotherapy, resection of the remainder oesophagus was performed with free jejunal transplantation. On postoperative day 14 the patient had been discharged with no complications and good swallowing function.

CONCLUSION

In our case, scar cancer developed 28 years after oesophageal resection and more than 50 years after the corrosive injury. This case is another argument for simple bypass.

[Prevention and treatment of anastomotic leakage and intestinal ischemia after esophageal replacement with colon]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effective management to prevent anastomotic leakage and intestinal ischemia after esophageal replacement with colon(ERC).

METHODS

Clinical data of 572 cases received ERC from March 1966 to March 2006 were analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS

Most of patients received ERC were diagnosed as esophageal cancer and esophageal stenosis(92.5%). 55.6% of cases underwent esophageal reconstruction and 44.4% of cases underwent esophageal bypass. During ERC procedure, the colon interposition graft length should be 3-4 cm longer than expectation; good blood supply was maintained; the lifted passage was unobstructed, and the physiological peristalsis direction was kept. The incidence of anastomotic leakage was analyzed among different periods, which were 14.2%, 13.5%, and 5.6% during 1966-1975, 1976-1995 and 1996-2006 respectively(P<0.05). No intestinal ischemia was observed in all the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

When performing ERC, the main preventional managements of anastomotic leakage and intestinal ischemia are fully blood supply maintenance and intercepting enough length of the colon graft. Ensuring unobstructed passage is good for survival of the colon graft. Correct physiological peristalsis direction of colon interposition is beneficial to the healing of the anastomosis.