Free bowel transfer for pharyngo-oesophageal reconstruction: an experimental and clinical study.

The use of a free bowel transfer to reconstruct pharyngo-oesophageal defects can only be accepted if the surgeon can guarantee that the microvascular techniques are near perfect. Experimental work in dogs demonstrates that high patency and graft survival rates can be achieved. The effectiveness of this technique in reducing morbidity and fistula formation is due to the rich blood supply to the graft which ensures sound and rapid healing. A case report is presented, demonstrating how quickly a patient can be rehabilitated after a radical pharyngo-laryngectomy.