Using tracheal segments for replacement of cervical oesophagus: an experimental study

Area of Science:

• Experimental surgery
• Gastrointestinal surgery
• Otorhinolaryngology

Background:

• Esophageal lesion treatment often involves complications.
• Tracheal resection and anastomosis are established procedures.
• Autogenous tracheal segments offer a potential solution for esophageal reconstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of replacing a resected cervical esophageal segment with a tracheal segment in a canine model.
• To assess the functional and histopathological results of this esophageal reconstruction technique.

Main Methods:

• Eight dogs underwent cervical esophageal resection and replacement with a 5 cm tracheal segment.
• Post-operative evaluation included swallowing and voice assessment, clinical and radiographic examinations for aspiration, and gross and histopathological examination of anastomoses.
• Animals were observed for 2 months post-surgery.

Main Results:

• No intraoperative complications were observed.
• All dogs maintained normal swallowing function and voice.
• No aspiration was detected post-operatively.
• Autopsy revealed patent anastomoses without narrowing or mucosal abnormalities.
• Histopathology showed squamous metaplasia, mucosal gland atrophy, and cartilage degeneration in the tracheal segments.

Conclusions:

• Autogenous tracheal segment replacement of cervical esophageal lesions is a viable and low-complication procedure.
• This technique shows promise for treating cervical esophageal lesions in humans.