Reconstruction of cervical esophagectomy defects using laryngotracheal bloc.

Abstract

Surgical treatment of cervical esophagus cancers generally requires a cervical esophagectomy followed by a reconstruction of the removed segment of the upper digestive tract. We describe the use of laryngotracheal bloc for the reconstruction of a resected cervical esophageal defect. Three patients were submitted to this technique. All operations were successfully performed without major procedure-related complications. Ability to swallow was preserved. During a period of ten to twenty-four months of follow-up, all the patients have survived, and can resume a regular diet. The preliminary results show that laryngotracheal bloc is an excellent choice for the reconstruction of the cervical esophagus segment after cancer resections, offering patients fast rehabilitation, lower morbidity, and recovery of satisfactory swallowing function.