Colonic interposition for oesophageal reconstruction with special reference to microvascular reinforcement of graft circulation.

A series of 14 patients who have undergone colonic interposition to cervical oesophagus have been studied. Particular emphasis has been placed on ensuring adequate circulation to the transplanted colon. This included meticulous assessment and care of colic vessels, and the addition of microvascular reinforcement of colonic circulation when the colon was taken to the neck. There were no cases of colonic necrosis or of anastomotic leak postoperatively. There was one postoperative death from a cause unrelated to these complications. Eleven patients could tolerate a full diet postoperatively.