Early reconstruction of pharynx and esophagus following corrosive injury with radial forearm flap in preparation for colon interposition.

In 24 patients, corrosive injuries involving the floor of the mouth, the pharynx, and the esophagus were repaired in two stages using a combined free forearm flap and colon for functional restoration of the alimentary tract. The results were satisfactory. Morbidity was decreased, complications were minimal, and there were no failures. In the first stage, early reconstruction with a forearm flap for the oral floor, the pharynx, and the cervical esophagus can be done safely 3 months after the original injury when the acute inflammation of the tissue has disappeared. The forearm flap is thin and pliable, and has a good blood supply for primary healing without failure or stricture. Dysphagia is eliminated because food passes down by gravity. There is no constriction or hyperperistalsis of the colon, both of which are occasionally seen with the traditional colon interposition. In the second stage, the traditional method is used to finish the reconstruction of the remainder of the esophagus.