Tubed latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flaps for thoracic esophageal replacement: an experimental study

Tubed musculocutaneous flap has never been used to replace a circumferential defect of the thoracic esophagus in adults or children. The aim of this study was to examine whether a tubed latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap (TLDMF) can be used to repair a long gap defect of the thoracic esophagus. In 14 puppies with an average weight of 4.9 kg, part of the esophagus (two vertebrae in length) was excised through a right thoracotomy. A latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap was introduced into the thoracic cavity. The cutaneous layer was rolled into a tube and interposed in the space of the excised esophagus. The muscle layer was wrapped around the anastomosis. Three puppies died of operative complications, such as a minor anastomotic leakage and postoperative bleeding. One died of an unknown cause. Ten puppies were studied postoperatively with a barium meal, endoscopic examination, and autopsy. The management of these puppies over 4 months is described. It proved possible to replace a long gap thoracic esophageal defect with a TLDMF, which was safe, easy to be transferred, and obviated a laparotomy. Thus, this technique might offer an alternative method to bridge a long gap in patients with esophageal atresia or severe stenosis.