Reconstruction of the thoracic esophagus using autotransplanted small intestine--an experimental study in the piglet

An experimental method is reported for bridging defects of the thoracic esophagus, using a free jejunal graft connected to the aorta by microvascular anastomoses. The advantages of this method are that defects are bridged by vital and well-vascularized tissue and that only short bowel segments are required. Drawbacks seen in animal experiments are a relatively difficult operative technique and a high complication rate. This high complication rate might be lowered in infants under intensive-care conditions.