Seromuscular patch as an adjunct in reconstruction of the cervical esophagus with free jejunal transfer.

During cervical esophageal reconstruction, an auxiliary piece of seromuscular tissue can be developed based on the same vascular pedicle as the interpositional piece. This segment of vascularized tissue can be used as a reconstructive aid in compromised areas where wound problems may create disastrous complications (e.g., carotid rupture or tracheoesophageal fistula). The proximal bowel anastomosis can be reinforced, an exposed carotid can be covered, or the distal jejunal anastomosis can be circumferentially wrapped. Any skin deficiencies created by placement of the seromuscular sleeve are easily corrected by a split-thickness skin graft.