RESUMO
The literature on oesophageal substitution is extensive since the early part of this century, when the jejunum. colon and sotmach were all used in the subcutaneous, retrosternal and post-mediastinal position. Most surgeons now believe that the use of the jejunum is unsatisfactory, chiefly due to the deficient blood supply. The choice is now restricted between the stomach and the colon. The potential operative risks appear to be higher in colon transplantation due to the greater length and the complexity of the procedure with three anastomoses the satisfactory oesophageal reconstructive technique must fulfill certain criteria:* The mortality and morbidity of the operation must be acceptable. * It must be possible to excise the diseased oesophagus and reconstrucr the gullet in one stage. * Sufficient viscus must be available to replace the entire oesophagus when necessary. * The relief of the patient's dysphagia must be complete and lasting