Anatomically based comparison of the different transthoracic routes for colon ascension after total esogastrectomy

Laparoscopic retrosternal gastric pull-up for fistulized mediastinal mass

We describe the case of a patient successfully reconstructed with laparoscopic retrosternal gastric pull-up after esophagectomy for unresectable posterior mediastinal inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor, eroding into the esophagus and compressing the airways. A partial esophagectomy with esophagostomy was performed for treatment of esophageal pleural fistula and empyema, while the airways were managed with the placement of an endobronchial stent. Gastrointestinal reconstruction was performed using a laparoscopic approach to create a retrosternal tunnel for gastric conduit pull-up and cervical anastomosis. The patient was discharged uneventfully after 6 d, and has done very well at home with normal diet.

Managing complications II: conduit failure and conduit airway fistulas

Conduit failure and conduit airway fistula are rare complications after esophagectomy, however they can be catastrophic resulting in high mortality. Survivors can expect a prolonged hospital course with multiple interventions and an extended period of time prior to being able to resume oral nutrition. High index of suspicion can aid in early diagnosis. Conduit failure usually requires a period of proximal esophageal diversion and staged reconstruction. Conduit airway fistulas may be amenable to endoscopic repair but this has a high failure rate and many patients will require surgical repair with closure of the fistula and interposition of vascularized tissue to minimize recurrence.

A novel blood supply method for free jejunal transfer with the third jejunal artery as vascular pedicle

PURPOSE

To assess the effective distribution of blood supply in jejunal graft with the 3rd intestinal artery as pedicle and to afford a reliable theoretic base for clinical esophageal reconstruction.

METHODS

Thirty-two formalin-preserved and 21 fresh cadaver specimens were studied with anatomic measurement, acetic ester perfusion, and Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) vascular casting specimen.

RESULTS

Results demonstrate there is no significant variation of vascular in the two groups. The inner diameter of the 3rd intestinal artery is comparatively larger among five intestinal arteries. There is a wider distribution of efficient blood supply in the 3rd intestinal artery. The mean (SD) length of homogenously stained jejunum segment, and the mean (SD) ABS effective distributing length of extended arches are 142.2 (62.3) cm and 30.8 (7.3) cm, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The 3rd intestinal artery as pedicle can afford adequate blood supply to the jejunum segment and has effective arterial arch with enough length; thus it meets the need of esophageal reconstruction.