Jejunal transplantation for pharyngoesophageal reconstruction

The reconstruction of circumferential and noncircumferential defects of the pharynx and cervical esophagus remains a challenging problem. A variety of different techniques are presently in use for this reconstruction. Free jejunal autografts were the first tissue to be transferred to the head and neck using microvascular techniques. A review of the literature on free jejunal autografts provides a collective experience that permits evaluation of the success rates and complications of the procedure. The results of this review reveal that this method of reconstruction is highly successful in restoring various ablative defects with an acceptable morbidity.