Radical resection for cancer of the hypopharynx and cervical oesophagus with repair by stomach transposition

Abstract

Summary The results of 58 consecutive cases of pharyngolaryngooesophagectomy and pharyngogastric anastomosis are presented. The Grey Turner technique is used, but modified by adding bilateral chest drainage established by guidance from below the diaphragm and a jejunostomy. The immediate postoperative therapy management of hypocalcaemia with calcium gluconate and long term control with calciferol is described. An overall 3-year survival rate of 29 per cent has been obtained. Seven patients survived longer than 7 years, the longest living over 10 years. The authors conclude that, with careful management this technique is within the compass of competent surgeons with good facilities and should be the surgical treatment of choice for these difficult tumours.