Conduit Selection for Reconstruction After Esophagectomy for Esophageal Cancer

The reconstruction of the esophagus after esophagectomy presents many technical and management challenges to surgeons. An effective gastrointestinal conduit that replaces the resected esophagus must have adequate length to reach the upper thoracic space or the neck, have robust vascular perfusion, and provide sufficient function for an adequate swallowing mechanism. The stomach is currently the preferred conduit for esophageal reconstruction after esophagectomy. However, there are circumstances, where the stomach cannot be utilized as a conduit. In these cases, an alternative conduit must be considered. The current alternative conduits include colon, jejunum, and tubed skin flaps.