Oesophageal substitution by jejunal free graft: follow-up data and an evaluation.

We have developed a new technique for oesophageal substitution using a jejunal free graft and now present a 3-5 year follow-up study of five infants who had this procedure performed for long gap oesophageal atresia. Swallowing is excellent in two, good in two and fair in one. We conclude that jejunal interposition, though technically difficult, can produce excellent results and we particularly recommend this technique, when the oesophageal substitute has to reach high in the thorax or to the neck.