Free Jejunal Graft for Reconstruction of Oral, Oropharyngeal, and Pharyngoesophageal Defects

Alfred Berger; C. Tizian; J. Hausamen; H. Schulz-Coulon; D. Löhlein

doi:10.1055/s-2007-1007059

Journal of Reconstructive Microsurgery, Table of Contents

J Reconstr Microsurg 1984; 1(2): 83-92
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1007059

ORIGINAL ARTICLE

Free Jejunal Graft for Reconstruction of Oral, Oropharyngeal, and Pharyngoesophageal Defects

Alfred Berger¹ , C. Tizian¹ , J. Hausamen² , H. Schulz-Coulon³ , D. Löhlein⁴

¹Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, West Germany
²Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, West Germany
³Department of Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, West Germany
⁴Department of Abdominal and Tansplantation Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, West Germany

Abstract

ABSTRACT

A free jejunal graft was used either as a patch or as a conduit in 40 cases of reconstruction of the oral cavity, hypopharynx, and upper esophagus. Compared with previous intraoral reconstructive techniques using skin or myocutaneous flaps, one-stage free jejunal grafts result in low morbidity, rapid postoperative recovery, and no additional head and neck scars. Because of secure vascularization, the retention of temporary mandible implants is made safer. In addition to tongue reconstruction, facial contouring can also be achieved by the use of mesenteric fatty tissue. The well-vascularized physiologic lining created by utilizing the jejunal graft is highly resistant to mechanical stress and postoperative radiation therapy.

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