Physiologic exclusion of the injured esophagus.

Despite continuing advances in the surgical and nutritional management of esophageal perforation, morbidity and mortality remain significant. Described within is the successful management of two such cases by the physiologic exclusion of the esophagus. By this, we mean distal decompression and proximal diversion and decompression through a gastrostomy and cervical esophagostomy. This provides the greatest chance for protection of the esophageal suture line repair.