[Protection of sutures of the injured esophagus using polyglactin 910 (Vicryl) mesh]

Dehiscence of suture after operative treatment of esophageal rupture is a quite frequent and dangerous complication. Several methods of reinforcement of suture with autologus material have been suggested of which the use of a pleura flap was the most successful one. After experimental investigations in the Department of Surgery of the University Hospital of Münster the securing of suture was performed by using Polyglactin 910 (Vicryl) meshgrafts. In 8 patients where the mesh grafts were used, a secondary leakage could be avoided. Considering our experiences, securing of suture by the use of Polyglactin 910 mesh-grafts is a recommendable method.