Swallowing function and gastric emptying in patients undergoing replacement of the esophagus.

In order to assess functional changes after esophagectomy, esophageal transit scintigraphy and gastric emptying measurements were performed in a group of 10 patients after esophagus substitution by the tubulized stomach, and in a group of 12 patient with an interposed colon. The swallowing function of the rest of the esophagus was preserved in 15 out of 22 patients. The best results were obtained on using a liquid bolus in an upright position, the worst function was found on using a solid bolus in a supine position. Reflux at the level of the anastomosis with the esophagus was detected in only 7 out of 22 patients. The gastric emptying rate was normal in 4 out of 12 examined patients. Scintigraphic methods proved to be suitable for the detection of functional changes after surgery. The function tests performed proved that substitution of the esophagus by either tubulized stomach or interposed colon provides the patient with adequate comfort, provided that he adopts certain habits.