Cervical esophageal strictures - a surgical approach

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Cervical esophageal strictures can result from caustic ingestion or complications following Zenker's diverticulum repair.
• These strictures significantly impair swallowing function and quality of life.

Observation:

• A novel two-stage surgical technique was employed for stricture correction.
• The first stage involved exteriorizing the stricture via an extended cervical esophagostomy.
• The second stage utilized a trap-door flap of adjacent skin to augment the esophageal lumen.

Findings:

• All seven patients achieved successful surgical correction of their cervical esophageal strictures.
• Post-operative recovery allowed for normal oral intake in all treated individuals.
• The technique effectively addressed strictures secondary to caustic ingestion and Zenker's diverticulum repair.

Implications:

• This surgical approach offers a viable solution for complex cervical esophageal strictures.
• The described method demonstrates potential for restoring normal esophageal function and improving patient outcomes.
• Further research could explore long-term efficacy and applicability in diverse patient populations.