ABSTRACT
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To study the feasibility and effect of substituting esophagus with stomach or colon without thoracotomy in the treatment of cervical esophageal carcinoma with laryngeal function preserved.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Twenty-four patients with cervical esophageal carcinoma were retrospectively reviewed. The esophagus was resected and substituted with 19 gastric pull-up and 5 colon interposition. Nineteen patients received radiotherapy postoperatively (dose 50 - 70 Gy).</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Twenty two patients were follow up over 3 years. The 3- and 5-year survival rates for T2 were 3 and 1, for T3, T4 8 and 3, respectively. The laryngeal function preservation rate was 77% (17/24) and the decannulation rate was 75% (12/16). The complication rate was 29%.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Surgical resection of cervical esophageal carcinoma with removal of the extraesophageal invaded tissues while preserving the laryngeal function is possible. The continuity of the esophagus is restored by stomach transposition and colon interposition. Combined with radiotherapy, the survival rate and life quality of the patient might be improved.</p>