Functional evaluation of gastric transplants used in esophageal reconstruction

Gastric transplants using the Akiyama method were used to treat esophageal carcinoma in 12 patients. Endoscopic examination, prolonged manometry (greater than 30 min), and 24 h pH monitoring were performed postoperatively to evaluate functional results. All patients could swallow without difficulty at the time of examination and had no dysphagia, regurgitation, heartburn, or sensation of abdominal fullness. Histologic examinations of residual esophagus showed microscopic esophagitis in 5 patients. Percentage of time that pH less than 4 was 42.6 +/- 10.9% (mean +/- SEM) and median pH was 4.3 +/- 1.0. The manometric examination showed no 'esophageal-like' peristaltic waves, but synchronous contractions were demonstrated in 9 patients, gastric type activity in two patients, and no activity was detected in one patient. We conclude that retained gastric peristaltic function is not a prerequisite for a good clinical outcome for swallowing and that despite vagotomy, the stomach continues to produce enough acid to maintain an acidic pH.