Free colon transfer for pharyngo-oesophageal reconstruction

This report describes free transfer of transverse colon for reconstruction of the hypopharynx and cervical oesophagus. The transverse colon based on the middle colic vessels was used in three patients following laryngo-pharyngo-oesophagectomy for hypopharyngeal squamous carcinoma. There were no flap failures or intra-abdominal complications. Solid diet was well tolerated. Transverse colon is easy to harvest, has a long vascular pedicle, wide diameter and good ischaemic tolerance. Contrast studies showed it to be a wide bore passive conduit. Compared with currently available options these features may allow better outcome in pharyngo-oesophageal reconstruction and warrant further evaluation. (C) 2000 The British Association of Plastic Surgeons.