FURTHER EXPERIMENTAL RECONSTRUCTION OF THE ESOPHAGUS WITH AUTOGENOUS FASCIA LATA TRANSPLANTS

Abstract

I. Previously reported experimental reconstruction of the esophagus by autogenous fascia lata transplants. II. Choice of material for replacing the resected portion of the esophagus. III. Plan of these later experiments. IV. Experimental data. V. Stenosis. VI. Conclusions. In a previous communication¹ emphasis was placed on the importance of avoiding infection in the operation for resection of the esophagus. The source of this infection was found to be, in the main, from "leakage of the contents of the esophagus. Whether this leakage takes place at the time of operation or subsequently, the result is the same—infection." Another source of infection was pointed out to be that from "epithelial lined tubes of the viscera or the entire viscus which was to replace the resected portion of the esophagus." Infection along any part of the esophagus usually leads to a fatal mediastinitis. Because of the fact that fascia lata is sterile