Colonic Transposition for Corrosive Esophageal Strictures - Our Experience

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Alkaline caustics and acids are the most common chemicals implicated in caustic burns. Stricture formation with inability to swallow food after the injury is inevitable in some cases. As for the complications and ineffectiveness of the dilation in more severe strictures, colonic transposition serves as a better replacement for the esophagus. Aim: This study aims to study the adequacy of colonic transposition done for cases of corrosive esophageal strictures and to discuss the complications and their management and the outcome of therapeutic measures employed. Materials and Methods: A total of eight adults with corrosive esophageal strictures were studied at M S Ramaiah Teaching Hospital for 2 years from October 2012 to December 2014. Results: Of the eight patients, who were studied, five were male and three were female. Intentional mode of corrosive intake was higher (n = 5) and acidic corrosive was more commonly ingested (n = 6). Upper esophageal stricture was seen in five patients. Colonic transposition + feeding jejunostomy (FJ) was done in eight patients, of which two patients underwent transhiatal esophagectomy+colonic transposition+FJ. Complications were seen in 50% of the patients with 38% having anastomotic leak and 12% having anastomotic stricture which were managed conservatively. All the eight patients had improved outcome of life. Conclusion: Colonic transposition is a good and effective conduit for the management of corrosive esophageal strictures.